Sensory Friendly Hours were successful.
The Libraries Transforming Communities grant was successful.
The Town of Sunderland’s financial situation was not. The Town cannot continue to support the expanded Sensory Friendly Hours at this time.
Sunderland Public Library will reduce our hours from 47 to 40 hours per week starting May 1, 2026.
Sensory Friendly Hours will continue in a lesser capacity.
The library is assessing our open hours (for the first time in 22 years) and will make adjustments to our lesser-used hours based on what we learn about patron needs and library use.
In addition to hourly gate counts (counting the number of people who visit the library building each hour), we are also asking our patrons to indicate when they want to visit the library. Are there hours that are particularly meaningful and important to you? Please let us know! Fill out this survey and let us know when you like (and need) to use the library.
This is a particularly devastating loss for me. In the past ten years that I have been Director, the number one most requested change was for the library to be open more hours, particularly on Thursday mornings. I will continue to advocate for the library to be able to meet this need, and I will continue to advocate to make our library an accessible place for all of our patrons.
Sincerely,
Katherine Umstot
Library Director
Are you interested in Buddhism, Philosophy, Mindfulness, or other related topics?
We have a patron who is interested in gathering a group of folks to discuss and learn more about these topics. If you’re interested too, please fill out this form so we can design a program for you: https://forms.gle/GfpzpGro9S862Mvr6
Resources for Tax Assistance
Sensory Friendly Hours on Thursdays
Sunderland Public Library is now open on Thursdays from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm for Sensory Friendly Hours. This means the library environment will be slightly altered, but the services and collections you love will remain the same. Everyone is welcome to visit during our Sensory Friendly Hours. Learn more about what you can expect during our Sensory Friendly Hours.
Special Events
Program Registration
To register, click on the desired event below, then click on the blue highlighted date, then the time, and then select “Confirm.” You will then be asked to supply your name and email. You may also register by calling the Library at 665-2642.
When registering for programs, please remember that one sign up = one spot saved in a program. Many of our programs have limited space available. Please contact the library if you have any problems registering for a program or if you have any questions.
