Are Libraries Open on Veterans Day?
Veterans Day, officially known as Armistice Day, is a federal holiday in the United States that is observed on November 11th every year. It is a day to honor and thank the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. As such, many government offices, including libraries, may have varying hours or be closed on this day. So, are libraries open on Veterans Day?
Typical Library Hours on Veterans Day
While some libraries may have special hours or closures on Veterans Day, the majority of public libraries will be open during their regular hours. In fact, many libraries pride themselves on being a warm and welcoming space for military personnel, veterans, and their families. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local library to confirm their hours before heading out to visit.
Special Exceptions
While most libraries are open on Veterans Day, there may be some special exceptions to this rule. For example, some libraries may have restricted hours or be closed completely if they are located within federal buildings or are funded through federal grants. Additionally, some libraries may have additional closures or restrictions due to weather or other circumstances. It’s always best to check with your library directly to confirm their hours and availability.
Libraries with Extended Hours
Some libraries may opt to stay open longer than usual on Veterans Day, often as a way to show appreciation for the brave men and women who serve our country. These extended hours may range from a few extra hours to all-day events and even overnight hours. For instance, the New York Public Library typically opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM, but on Veterans Day, they may stay open until 8:00 PM. Check with your local library to see if they have any special events or extended hours planned for Veterans Day.
Additional Resources
In addition to being a welcoming space, many libraries also offer additional resources and services for military personnel, veterans, and their families. Some common resources include:
• Veterans service centers: Many libraries host veterans service centers, where veterans can receive assistance with benefits, claims, and other services.
• Research assistance: Librarians can help with researching military history, genealogy, and other topics.
• Computer access: Libraries often provide free internet access and computer usage, which can be especially useful for those who don’t have access to these services at home.
• Book collections: Many libraries have special collections of military-themed books, including biographies, memoirs, and historical accounts.
Summary
In summary, the majority of public libraries are open on Veterans Day, with some possible special exceptions. It’s always a good idea to check with your local library to confirm their hours and availability. Additionally, many libraries offer special services and resources for military personnel, veterans, and their families. Whether you’re a veteran, a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about this important holiday, your local library is a great place to start.
Timeline of Veterans Day
Below is a timeline of some notable events and milestones that have led to the recognition of Veterans Day:
- 1918: Armistice Day is established to commemorate the end of World War I.
- 1954: Armistice Day is replaced with Veterans Day to recognize all American veterans, living and deceased.
- 1968: The Uniform Holiday Act moves Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October, but it remains a federal holiday.
- 1975: A campaign is launched to "return" Veterans Day to its original date of November 11th.
- 1978: Congress and President Jimmy Carter sign legislation to return Veterans Day to its original date of November 11th.
Table: Library Hours by State
Below is a table showing the typical hours for some major libraries by state. Please note that these hours are subject to change and may not be up-to-date. For the most accurate information, it’s always best to check with your local library.
| State | Libraries | Monday Hours | Friday Hours | Saturdays | Sundays |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Los Angeles Public Library, San Francisco Public Library | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Closed |
| New York | New York Public Library | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Closed | Closed |
| Illinois | Chicago Public Library | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Closed |
| Texas | Houston Public Library | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Closed |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Veterans Day is a federal holiday, the majority of public libraries are open to serve their communities. As a way to show appreciation for the brave men and women who serve our country, many libraries offer additional resources and services for military personnel, veterans, and their families. Whether you’re a veteran or simply interested in learning more about this important holiday, your local library is a great place to start.
