Summer operating hours start December 2025
Library branch hours will be adjusted across December 2025 to February 2026. These temporary changes will provide an increase in reliability of services, increase leave opportunities for Libraries ACT staff, allow for the completion of end of year processing, and preparation and planning for 2026 with minimal impact on services.
Data indicates a decline in loans, returns, and visitors during December and January, so closure days have been selected based on low demand.
Summer Operating Hours
From Monday 1 December 2025 until Sunday 1 February 2026, Libraries ACT branches will operate according to the below timetable:
Dickson, Gungahlin, and Woden
- 10:00am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday
- 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday
Civic and Erindale
- 10:00am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday
Belconnen, Kingston, Kippax, and Tuggeranong
- 10:00am to 5:30pm Tuesday to Friday
- 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday
ACT Heritage Library
- 10.00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday
Note: Return chutes will remain open during Summer operating hours except during the Christmas shutdown period.
The changes include reduced opening hours on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays, and no late-night trading hours.
While operating with reduced capacity, we hope that all Canberrans will continue to be patient, kind and courteous to library staff when attending a library branch, engaging with our staff who work out and about in the community or speaking with someone over the phone during the summer period.
Christmas Shutdown
All Libraries ACT branches and return chutes will be closed for Christmas shutdown period from 5:30pm Tuesday 23 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026 (inclusive).
The community is asked not to leave items at branches during the Christmas shutdown period.
For more information about summer operating hours please refer to the FAQs below and check back on this page for the latest information .
FAQS
Will my loans be extended over the Christmas shutdown period?
Any item due to be returned during the Christmas shutdown period will automatically have its due date extended to Monday 12 January 2026 , to allow library members additional time to return their items.
What happens if I have a room booking or program when the library is closed?
Impacted stakeholders including community members and organisations who have booked rooms and programs on these days will be contacted and offered alternative arrangements where possible.
What happens if there is an emergency?
In the event of severe weather conditions or emergency, Libraries ACT will open as a safe haven in line with current procedures.
Will the Home Library Service operate over the shutdown period?
Home Library Services will cease operation on Monday 22 December 2025 and will resume on Monday 5 January 2026. Loans which fall due within this period have already been extended to Monday 12 January 2026.
