Thursday, October 1, 2026
In today’s Internet age and era of limited government resources, public libraries are often forced to make cuts in hours and resources. However, the East Rockaway Public Library is doing just the opposite — library hours have been enhanced and expanded.
The library’s operating schedule has been lengthened, including the first-ever permanent operating hours on Sundays. Beginning June 22, Mayor Francis Lenahan and Library President Craig Mollo announced that the library will be open and fully operational on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.
Additionally, full summer Saturday operations have also recently begun. For 10 weeks this summer, each Saturday the library will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. After Labor Day, the Saturday schedule switches to a 10 a.m. opening to 5 p.m. closing.
Weekday evening hours have been lengthened as well. These new full weekday hours extend the time of the library’s operations from Monday through Thursday until 8 p.m. and on Fridays until 6 p.m. It’s also the first time the library has had full evening weekday hours; previously the facility was closed on Wednesday and Friday nights.
“The public has requested expanded hours for many years,” Lenahan said. “I’m glad we listened and made it a reality. Working with the Library Board, we know that families and seniors were looking for a place to come to expand their horizons.”
The East Rockaway Public Library gives students a place to come after school to study, adults a place to check out their favorite book or DVD and families to spend time together in an educational and stimulating environment.
Mollo said the new schedule permits greater access and increased operations for families and seniors.
