Key West Library To Close For Roof Replacement
The Key West branch of the Monroe County Public Library will be closed to the public for about four weeks, starting Sept. 21, 2026, while the roof of the building is replaced. The closing includes the Florida Keys History Center.
Library staff will continue to provide services to library patrons in the area, online and at different locations.
Community events will be posted here, on the library calendar, and on social media.
FAQ on Key West Library roof replacement
Why is the branch closing?
We are replacing the roof to protect the building and all the materials inside, including our collections of books, historic documents, and photographs.
How can I get books and DVDs while the branch is closed?
You can request items through our online catalog and ask that they be held at our Pickup Locker at Bernstein Park on Stock Island. Bernstein Park also has a Lending Machine, where you can borrow books and DVDs. The park is at 6751 Fifth Street, Stock Island, and is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
We are planning to hold library outreach events at a different location where you will be able to pick up and return books. Information on those events will be posted here and on our library calendar. Some library programs like Story Time and adult crafts will also be held at an offsite location.
We have a large and growing collection of eBooks and audiobooks for all ages and genres. You can access them most easily with the Libby app: keyslibraries.org/post/libby-welcome. Libby also includes more than 6,000 digital magazine titles, including previous issues, with no holds or waiting.
Our Kanopy streaming app has more than 30,000 films and TV shows, including unlimited plays in Kanopy Kids and in our Kanopy Favorites and British Film & Television collections: keyslibraries.org/post/welcome-to-kanopy. Kanopy also has a robust collection of instructional videos.
We have a number of 24/7 e-library resources and step-by-step guides to using them.
If I use a different branch, will I still be able to request books from Key West?
Yes, we will continue filling requests from the other branches and deliver them to those branches.
How long will you be closed?
We expect construction to take about four weeks. If we can re-open sooner, we will. Updated information will be posted here and on our social media accounts.
How will I know when you re-open?
That information will be posted here on the website and on our social media accounts: facebook.com/keywestlibrary and @keywestlibrary on Instagram.
How can I reach you while you’re closed?
You can reach us here: Keyslibraries.org/contact-us.
Can I return books while you’re closed?
You can return books and DVDs to the Lending Machine at Bernstein Park, using your library card, and at outreach events. You can also return books and DVDs at any other Monroe County Public Library branch. You cannot return books at the Key West Library branch or book drops during the closure.
Books and DVDs renew automatically up to five times as long as no one else has requested them. We do not charge overdue fines.
What if I have a question for the Florida Keys History Center?
The History Center, like the rest of the building, will be closed during construction. Many of our resources are available at keyslibraries.org/keyshistory. If you have a specific question, you can contact our History Center staff at history@monroecounty-fl.gov or by calling 305-809-5260.
I want to get a library card. How can I do that while you’re closed?
You can visit one of our other branches, or you can pre-register for a card online here and get started with Libby, Kanopy, and other online services right away. If you pre-register online, you must visit one of our branches within 90 days to convert to the full two-year card. You can also register for a card at our outreach events.
