Alamance County Libraries Provide Lifeline for Health and Access

Alamance County Public Libraries continue to serve as a central community resource, offering services that go beyond books to address public health access and social equity. With in person borrowing, holds and inter branch pickup, home delivery and mobile library routes, the system reduces barriers for residents who face mobility challenges, lack broadband at home, or cannot easily travel to a central location. The libraries also provide digital resources such as ebooks and databases, local history and genealogy collections, job help resources, children programming and community calendars that support education, employment and family wellbeing.

Access to internet and a private place to connect with a clinician matters in a county where telehealth has become increasingly common. Libraries offer the connectivity and quiet space many residents need to complete virtual medical visits, renew prescriptions online and schedule appointments. Home delivery and mobile routes further lower the risk of social isolation for older adults and people with disabilities, helping to maintain continuity of care and access to health information.

Branch locations and standard hours are arranged to reach different neighborhoods. May Memorial Library at 342 S. Spring St., Burlington, serves as headquarters and is open Monday through Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and closed on Sunday. Mebane Public Library at 101 S. First St., Mebane, is open Monday through Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and closed on Sunday. Graham Public Library at 211 S. Main St., Graham, maintains the same hours Monday through Saturday with Sunday closed. North Park Library at the Mayco Bigelow Community Center operates on a variable schedule with Monday through Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and weekends closed.

These hours and services provide practical supports, but gaps remain for shift workers and residents who need weekend access or later evening options. Sustained local funding, partnerships with health providers and investment in broadband and transit are policy levers that would strengthen the libraries' role in promoting health equity. Residents can use the branches, digital tools and delivery services to access job resources, children's programs and health related information, and community leaders can prioritize library support as part of a broader public health strategy.