The Southern Pines Library closure remains in effect until further notice after a water leak was discovered inside the building Saturday afternoon. Town officials expect the interruption to be short-term, but an exact reopening date has not yet been announced.
Facilities employees responded August 8 to limit the water intrusion and begin assessing the affected parts of the building. At the same time, library staff moved quickly to protect books, computers, technology and other materials used by the public.
Southern Pines Library Closure Expected to Be Temporary
The Town of Southern Pines said it plans to provide an updated reopening timeline after workers determine what repairs are needed. Officials also expect to share information about programs scheduled for the week of August 10.
Assistant Town Manager Jessica Roth credited the facilities and library teams for working together to protect the building and its resources. She also thanked residents for their patience while the town evaluates the damage.
Anyone planning to attend a meeting, children’s activity or other library program should check the town’s official updates before traveling to the building. The Southern Pines Library closure affects access to the main facility, but several services remain available away from the building.
SPARK Kiosk and Digital Services Remain Available
The SPARK 24/7 Library Kiosk remains open in front of Southern Pines Fire Station 82 at 7850 N.C. 22. Patrons can use the kiosk at any time to borrow, return or renew materials.
The kiosk carries more than 200 items, including popular fiction and nonfiction, large-print books, audiobooks, DVDs and children’s books. It gives residents an in-person option while the Southern Pines Library closure continues.
Library cardholders can also use the Libby app to borrow ebooks, digital magazines and audiobooks. More than 100 online databases and other digital resources are available through the Southern Pines Public Library website.
Streaming services remain accessible as well. Patrons can watch movies, documentaries, educational programs, children’s content and music performances through Kanopy, Films on Demand and Just for Kids.
These options will not replace every service normally offered inside the library, but they can help families, students and regular patrons continue reading, researching and borrowing materials during the disruption. Direct links to the ebook catalog, online databases and streaming platforms are available through the town’s public-library webpages.
Book Returns Still Accepted at Main Library
The parking-lot drop box at the main library remains available for returning borrowed items. Residents do not need to enter the building to use the drop box during the Southern Pines Library closure.
The town has not reported a final damage estimate or detailed repair schedule. Because the assessment is still underway, patrons should rely on official Town of Southern Pines announcements for the reopening date and any changes to scheduled programs.
Star 102.5 will share new information when the town announces its reopening plans. Keeping you connected to the Sandhills and beyond.
Sources: Town of Southern Pines public notice and a contributed report published by the Sandhills Sentinel.
