What to know, what’s still open, and how to access services
The St. Joe County Public Library’s Main Library will experience a partial closure on Monday, January 5 through Thursday, January 8, 2026 for a major elevator repair.
The elevator repair requires jackhammers and other heavy equipment, creating significant noise and disruption. While we always aim to remain open whenever possible, this repair requires several consecutive days of intensive work that would make the building uncomfortable and unsafe for visitors.
This means that during the repair, patrons will not be able to access the three floors of the main library that house our physical collection (Books, DVD’s, Magazines, etc.). Additionally, our computer lab, teen room, Local and Family History Section, Art Gallery, and Children’s Section will be closed to the public. We know this closure is inconvenient, and we appreciate your patience as we complete this important repair. To minimize disruption, we’ve made special arrangements so the community can still access key services at our Main Location.
What’s still open during the closure?
While the Main Library building will be closed, the Community Learning Center (CLC), which is attached to the Main Library, will remain open and offer limited services. Patrons can enter the Community Learning Center from the Library’s Courtyard, or from the corner of Wayne and Michigan St.
Community Learning Center Hours
- Monday–Thursday: 9:00am–8:00pm
Studio 304 will also remain fully open with its regular hours and services.
Services available in the Community Learning Center
Visitors can access the following during the closure by visiting the Community Learning Center:
- Holds pickup for Main Library will be available on carts in the hallway of the Community Learning Center. Patrons can check out at the Welcome Desk.
- Popular materials on carts, including recent returns
- Returns cart for book and media drop-off
- Free printing and faxing over $5 (to a reasonable limit)
- Computer access on the 2nd floor in Beutter-Kernan Hall
(15 computers plus a printer) - Movies shown throughout the day in the Auditorium
- Quiet activities for adults (Ballroom A)
- Activities for kids, teens, and families (Ballroom B)
Library staff will be available throughout the Community Learning Center to help with printing, computers, holds, directions, and general questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return books during the closure?
Yes. Items can be returned at the Community Learning Center using the indoor return cart or at any open St. Joe County Public Library branch.
Can I pick up my holds?
Yes. Holds will be available on carts in the Community Learning Center hallway and can be checked out at the Welcome Center.
What about storytimes and other programs?
Programming such as Storytime, Babytime and Sensory time will not be held at our Main Library during this repair. These programs will resume at their usual cadence once the building is reopened. Please use our online calendar for the most up-to-date information on library programs and to view programs and events at our other locations. You can also use the online calendar to check the status of library programs that are held in the Community Learning Center.
Are other branches open?
Yes. All St. Joe County Public Library branches remain open during this time, except the LaSalle Branch, which is currently closed for renovation. You can learn more about our other locations here.
Will parking be affected?
Yes. The Main Library’s patron parking lot may have limited spaces due to construction equipment. We recommend using the Wayne Street parking garage, which offers two hours of free parking.
Will noise affect the Community Learning Center?
Some construction noise may be audible in the CLC, but it will be significantly quieter than the Main Library.
Will this repair improve anything long-term?
Yes. This elevator repair ensures safe, reliable access for all patrons and helps preserve the building for future use.
Still have questions?
Call us at 574-282-4646. This page will be updated as needed throughout the closure.
