Isiah Christie 
The Jersey City Free Public Library (JCFPL) is one of Hudson County’s best resources, with over ten branches serving different neighborhoods of the city. Unfortunately, its Five Corners Branch, located at 678 Newark Avenue, has announced its closure due to maintenance issues that can no longer be sustained. This includes issues with heating, cooling, and ventilation, which can no longer be temporarily fixed by JCFPL. Keep reading to learn about the Jersey City Free Public Library’s Five Corners Branch closure.
Image courtesy of Jersey City Free Public Library.
What to Know
The Jersey City Free Public Library’s Five Corners Branch, found in the heart of Journal Square, has announced its closure after nearly 70 years of service. The building was originally constructed in 1957 and has sported outdated heating, cooling, and ventilation systems since, with no existing route for routine maintenance or repairs. JCFPL has attempted to use temporary units as a means of maintaining comfortable conditions in the building, but claims that they are no longer sustainable financially.
JCFPL also explained in its press release that the building would require extensive environmental remediation to continue use, with materials from its original construction acting as a deterrent to any possible replacements. “[The] Library leadership and the Board of Trustees have carefully reviewed the available options, including another temporary heating and cooling system,” JCFPL stated. “However, that option would require substantial installation and ongoing operational costs while still failing to provide a sustainable, long-term solution.”
Until a temporary location to accommodate library services is found, JCFPL will be stationing one of its Bookmobiles outside of the branch. This exists to help accommodate the neighborhood during the transition, but the library intends to find a new permanent home for the Five Corners Branch that is safer and equipped with newer systems.
This news follows the announcement of the Hoboken Public Library closing for renovations this summer, with an expected return date of October.
See More: The History Behind Hoboken’s Honorary Street Names
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