Islamorada Library Announces Holiday Hours, Winter Reading Challenge

The Islamorada branch of the Monroe County Library adjusted service hours for the holiday season and unveiled a recent refresh to its public space, information posted on December 23 shows. The branch was closed December 24 through 26 and reopened on Saturday December 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Looking ahead this week the library will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday December 31 and remain closed on Thursday January 1.

Those schedule changes matter to residents who rely on library services for more than books. The Islamorada branch offers borrowing of books and DVDs and provides access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming video and music, and digital magazines through keyslibraries.org/online. For people who lack reliable home internet or who need a quiet place to connect with health services and government resources, adjusted hours can change when and how they obtain essential information.

Community programming resumes with the Upper Keys Winter Olympics Reading Challenge in January. Registration begins Monday December 29 at the Islamorada branch and at the Key Largo branch. The program invites all ages to register in person and to participate in reading challenges throughout January. Participants who complete selected activities or events will earn Gold, Silver, or Bronze medals as part of the challenge structure. The program aims to sustain literacy gains made over the school year and to provide structured opportunities for families, seniors, and youth to engage in shared reading.

Public health and social equity are central to the local impact of these changes. Libraries serve as hubs for social connection, mental wellbeing, and access to telehealth and public health information, especially during holiday periods when other services may be limited. Ensuring consistent hours and robust digital offerings helps reduce barriers faced by low income residents and those with limited transportation. County residents can find current hours and event information at keyslibraries.org and can explore digital collections at keyslibraries.org/online.