What is standard for posting hours?
William J.Schroer

The rules for posting the open hours of the Library are these:

  • Visibility
  • Ubiquity
  • Flexibility
Visibility

The concept of visibility is straightforward but important. Insure posted hours at the entrance can be read from a distance of 6 feet. Why? Because if a person with good eyesight can see the times from 6 feet away, seniors with vision challenges and others who may have some difficulty reading signs should still be able to see. Even better, purchase an “Open” neon sign that will signal your status from as far as the street.

Ubiquity

Any portal to the library needs to have the hours posted. Check your library to make sure of clear, visible posting of hours at all these entry points to the Library:

  • Main and secondary entrances
  • Entry to the parking lot
  • Library Drop boxes
  • Voice mail and the phone mail system
  • Website
  • Library Letterhead
  • Library Newsletter
  • Library notices (overdue/fines/books on hold)
  • Other ?
Flexibility
Many libraries have seasonal hours. Libraries also close for holidays or inservices. Provide plenty of notice in advance of upcoming Library closings or seasonal hours adjustments via all the portals noted above.