Extreme Heat Closes Hazlet Library Until Further Notice

HAZLET, NJ - The Hazlet Library on Middle Road is closed until at least June 30 due to extreme heat, the township announced Monday.

In a municipal statement, the township attributed the closure to a “combination of the heat and a problem with air conditioning.”

“If the AC unit is fixed this week, we will resume normal business operations,” the statement reads. Updates regarding the library’s potential reopening on either Thursday and Friday will be announced as the week goes on.

The book drop is also closed. Fines will not be assessed on items due from June 25 through June 30 and patrons are asked to hold onto their items until the library reopens.

The announcement was made as near record-setting temperatures hit New Jersey this week. The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory on Monday until 8 p.m. on Wednesday as heat index values (apparent temperature) up to 104 degrees are expected. Read more: NJ Heat Wave: Extreme Temperatures, Thunderstorms In Forecast

The service urges New Jerseyans to limit time spent outside as hot temperatures and high humidity can cause heat illnesses to occur.

“The heat is on and Sheriff Golden is urging all to take precautions as temperatures soar into the middle and upper 90s today and tomorrow,” the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office wrote in a statement on Tuesday.

“[The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office] recommends people stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid the sun, stay indoors in an air conditioned area during excessive heat/humidity (particularly the elderly, children and those with health problems), never leave a pet or child unattended in a vehicle and check on the elderly, family, friends and neighbors.”

You can view a list of cooling centers here.