[Saipan, MP] —The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL) announces that the library will officially reopen to the public on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, under the temporary operating hours of Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. due to damages sustained during Super Typhoon Sinlaku.
The temporary reopening has been made possible through the installation of a FEMA emergency generator, allowing the library to restore minimal public services while recovery efforts continue. However, because all three centralized air conditioning systems sustained significant damage during the typhoon, library operations and public access will remain limited until further notice.
“Our priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of our patrons, staff, and community while continuing to provide essential library services during this recovery period,” stated Joeten-Kiyu Public Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi.
LIMITED PUBLIC SERVICES
Beginning Tuesday, June 2, 2026, the library will provide limited onsite services. The facility will remain closed on weekends and public holidays until further notice. Due to structural impacts and ventilation limitations caused by the typhoon, patron visits will be limited to one (1) hour per session to ensure equitable access and maintain safety standards.
ACCESS AND CIRCULATION PROTOCOLS
Standard procedures for entering and exiting the library building remain in effect. Due to damages sustained during the typhoon, physical access to library stacks is restricted to designated areas only. Patrons are strongly encouraged to verify material availability prior to arrival through the library’s Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC) available at 1 www.cnmilib.org. All circulation procedures for checking library materials in and out remain in effect and must be strictly observed.
WAIVING OF OVERDUE FEES
Recognizing the hardships experienced throughout the typhoon recovery period, JKPL will formally waive all overdue fines accumulated during the closure period and initial recovery phase. Patrons are encouraged to return borrowed materials when it is safe and convenient to do so.
DAMAGED LIBRARY MATERIALS
Patrons whose library materials were damaged due to flooding or storm-related leaks are requested not to attempt independent repairs. Damaged items should instead be brought to the circulation desk during temporary operating hours for formal assessment and record documentation.
TECHNOLOGY AND PRINTING SERVICES
The Information Technology Center (ITC) has temporarily been relocated into the Children’s Library area. Due to limited computer availability, computer usage is restricted to one (1) hour per patron for essential tasks on a first-come, first-served basis. Paid printing services remain available; however, patrons are asked for patience as technical issues resulting from the typhoon continue to be addressed. Free wireless internet service is also available onsite.
CURBSIDE PICK-UP SERVICES
To reduce indoor crowding and support safer service access, curbside and drive-by pickup remain the preferred methods for borrowing materials. Patrons wishing to utilize curbside services are encouraged to reserve materials through the library’s OPAC catalog at www.cnmilib.org or contact the Front Circulation Desk at (670) 235-7322 to schedule a pick-up time during temporary operating hours.
CHILDREN’S LIBRARY SERVICES
Access to the Children of Our Homeland (a.k.a. Children’s Library) has been restored with modified guidelines due to limited capacity and structural impacts. Usage of the children’s area will be limited to one (1) hour per day per family to ensure fair access and maintain a safe environment for all families. Staff will continue providing reading recommendations and assistance locating juvenile materials.
Additional children’s programming includes:
- Arts and Crafts Station available during operating hours.
- Weekly Read Aloud Sessions every Friday at 10:30 a.m.
- Sensory Corner Access available by appointment only for families with children with disabilities. Sensory Corner reservations are limited to one family for 45 minutes per session. Appointments may be scheduled by calling (670) 235-7315.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library extends its sincere gratitude to the community for its continued patience, support, and understanding throughout the recovery process following Super Typhoon Sinlaku. For additional information, please contact us via email at cnmilib.info@gmail.com or call us at Front Circulation Desk: (670) 235-7322/7323 or Children’s Library: (670) 235-7315.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library continues to develop innovative and enriching programs for the community. Explore our free resources and upcoming events on our website at www.cnmilib.org and social media platforms: like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, X @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and Youtube: joeten kiyu public library.
HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?
We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-260857-OLS-26.
This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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