Bridge City Mayor David Rutledge has announced a change in the operating hours of the Bridge City Public Library. While the library will still be open for 35 hours per week, the new schedule, effective Tuesday, October 1, 2024, will include being open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Previously, the library operated with varying hours throughout the week, including extended hours on some weekdays and early closures on Fridays. The library’s old hours were 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursdays, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays. The library remains closed on weekends.
Mayor Rutledge explained that the change was made to ensure the library could continue serving the community while maintaining consistent hours. “We did this to make sure we could keep it open,” said Mayor Rutledge.
Some residents have voiced concerns on social media, expressing that the new hours may not be as convenient for working families who typically finish work at 5 p.m. In response to these concerns, Mayor Rutledge noted that a sign-up sheet was placed in the library for patrons to indicate the hours they were using the facility. According to the data collected, the library saw very few visitors between 6 and 7 p.m. on Thursdays, suggesting the late hours were underutilized.
When asked about possible changes in library staffing, Mayor Rutledge declined to comment on personnel matters.
The topic of the library’s hours and operations was discussed during a Bridge City City Council workshop on September 17. The agenda included a review of library operations, schedules, and staffing. The council will continue to evaluate community needs and library services as necessary.
Located at 101 Parkside, near the Community Center and park area off West Roundbunch Road, the Bridge City Public Library is one of three city-operated libraries in Orange County. Unlike neighboring libraries, which charge non-residents for library cards, Bridge City provides free services to all Texas residents. The library offers not only books and magazines but also public computers, fax, copy, and scanning services, as well as e-books and audiobooks for download.
For more information, please contact the Mayor’s Office or visit the Bridge City Public Library during its new hours.
