Libraries Get New Names as System Expands Hours

Libraries in Odenton and Severn are among those that will get new names this month as the system rolls out expanded hours for patrons. 

The Provinces Library in Severn will simply be re-named the Severn Community Library, and the West County Area Library will eventually be re-labeled as a "regional" library. 

All "branch" libraries will be re-labeled as "community" libraries under the re-naming plan. For instance, the South County Branch Library will become the Deale Community Library.

The changes come as the library system plans to expand its hours beginning on January 26. 

Under the changes announced last year, all libraries will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Monday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Five libraries will also be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays, including the Crofton and Severna Park libraries. 

“This will mark the first time that libraries throughout Anne Arundel County all will have the same schedule,” said Hampton “Skip” Auld, the executive director of the library system, in a press release. “No longer do you have to scratch  your head and ask, ‘Is the library open this morning?’ or ‘Is the library open after work today?’ We are truly pleased.”