A Thursday, September 7, power outage damaged the HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems at several City of Hobbs facilities – the Public Library, City Hall, the Teen Center and the Municipal Court. 

Damage to the public library’s HVAC system was extensive “…to the point that it no longer cools the facility,” states a Wednesday, September 13, City of Hobbs press release (PDF). Uncomfortable temperatures over 80° have been and are being experienced inside the building.

As a result of this situation, the decision was made to close the library to the public effective Monday, September 11 until further notice while repairs are made. City of Hobbs Director of Communications Meghan Mooney states about the building’s closure, “The completion date for the repair is unknown at this time as it is dependent on the availability and delivery of ordered parts.” Mooney continues, “Staff have worked diligently to identify the issue and order parts during a season when many other HVAC systems are under repair.”

Although no guarantees are made, the hope is for the library to reopen “…by the end of next week.”

Patrons of the Hobbs Public Library are reminded that they may use their Hobbs’ library card at the Lovington Public Library, the Eunice Public Library, the NMJC Pannell Library and the Woolworth Community Library.

Staff to Work During Closure 

During the facility’s closure staff will continue to work and “find creative ways to provide services during this challenging time, including Story Time for children and access to materials,” states the press release. Specifics as to how these services will be provided are not mentioned. 

Things to Remember During the Temporary Closure

• Due items should be deposited in the drop box at 509 North Shipp Street.

• Late fees will not be incurred.

• All “scheduled programs, reservations, or meetings are canceled”. 

Statement from Library Director

Library director Nichole Lawless said about the temporary closure, “We want to be open and serving the public every day, so this is a very difficult time for our team. With many new ideas and programming currently in planning phases, we are motivated to get back to work and engaging with the public. The support and encouragement, especially from our regular patronship, has been incredibly encouraging, and we ask for them to continue to support us.”

Updates about the library’s reopening and rescheduled programming will be provided via City of Hobbs social media platforms and/or through future press releases.

For additional information email library@hobbsnm.org or send a message via City of Hobbs’ Facebook or Instagram pages.