Effective October 5, 2026, the Fair Haven Public Library will be closing for 4-6 weeks to undergo our long-awaited and community-driven renovation. We’re excited to begin this next chapter! We know that the renovation will mean some temporary changes and inconveniences for our patrons and we truly appreciate your patience and support throughout the process. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back to a refreshed, more comfortable, and improved Library space.
Fair Haven Public Library Renovation FAQS
How long will the Library be closed?
Our current estimated project timeline calls for the Library to be closed for approximately four to six (4 - 6) weeks.
We know that even a temporary closure can be an inconvenience, and we sincerely appreciate your patience while the work is underway. There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to transform our space.
The renovation will include the careful removal and storage of our current book collection, followed by the breakdown and preparation of the existing space. Our contracted vendors will then work together to install new flooring, ceiling tiles and lighting, electrical systems, HVAC components and IT infrastructure, along with fresh paint.
Once that work is complete, our furniture vendor will deliver and install new shelving, tables and seating. We can’t wait to see it all come together!
What about books that need to be returned while you’re closed?
We will check books out to patrons up until Friday, October 2nd. Books may be returned in our orange, “Book Return” receptacle located in the vestibule of Borough Hall and/or at Eastern branch (see below.) We will also be extending due dates until we reopen and any late fees will be forgiven.
Where can I pick up books and library related materials in the meantime?
While our Fair Haven Library is closed, we invite all of our patrons to take advantage of the resources available through the Monmouth County Library.
You can obtain a Monmouth County Library card at the Eastern Branch in Shrewsbury. Just bring proof of Fair Haven residency. Once you have your card, you’ll be able to check out and return books and other materials there until our Library reopens.
Where is the Eastern Branch and what are its hours?
The Monmouth County Library Eastern Branch is located at 1001 NJ-35 in Shrewsbury, next to the Trader Joe’s shopping center.
Hours are:
- Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
When will the Library reopen?
We are currently planning to reopen and welcome you back into our new and improved Library by the middle of November. We’ll keep the community updated as the project progresses and will share any changes to the anticipated reopening date.
What about all of your ongoing programming, such as Toddler Storytime and Book Club?
Don’t worry! We’re not putting our programs on pause. We plan to continue most of our beloved weekly and monthly programs at alternate locations in town: primarily the Fair Haven Community Center, 35 Fisk Street, unless otherwise noted*.
- Toddler Storytime on Tuesdays at 9:30 AM & 10:30 AM
- Knitting Club on Thursdays from 1:30 to 3:00 PM
- Pumpkin Spice Candle Making Workshop from 10 to 11:30 AM on Wed, 10/7
- Library Book Club on Wed, 10/14 at 2:00 pm at Bicentennial Hall* (25 Cedar Avenue)
- Miss Jolie Halloween Bubbly Beat on Tuesday, 10/20 at 10 AM at Bicentennial Hall*
We’re grateful to our community partners for helping us keep these programs going while our Library is being renovated. We hope to see you there!
What will the Library look like when the renovation is complete?
We’re excited to share our plans with you! Before we close, we invite you to stop by the Library to take a look at the remodeled floor plan and drawings and get a preview of what’s to come.
The plans are also available on our website at www.fairhavenlib.org.
How is the renovation being funded?
This renovation is truly a community effort. The cost of the project is being shared by the Borough of Fair Haven, generous patrons and Fair Haven residents who responded to the Friends of the Fair Haven Public Library campaign appeal, and Library reserves that have been carefully built up over many years.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this project possible. Your generosity and support reflect the important place the Library holds in our community and will help ensure that it continues to serve Fair Haven for years to come.
Who can I contact with questions?
We’re happy to help! If you have questions about the Library or the renovation during our closure, please contact Betty Ann Berube at Borough Hall at (732) 747-0241. Betty Ann will share your question with our team, and a Library staff member will follow up with you.
Thank you for your patience, support, and enthusiasm as we work together to create an even better Library for our cherished town.
