The Fernandina Beach Branch Library will lose Saturday service starting Thursday, Oct. 1, as part of Nassau County budget cuts that also permanently close the Bryceville branch later in the month.

The Nassau County Public Library System confirmed the changes on its Facebook page, first reported by Action News Jax on Monday, Sept. 21. The Fernandina Beach branch at 25 N. 4th St. will drop from six days a week to five, ending its only weekend hours.

Weekday hours at the branch stay the same: Monday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Florida NewsLine first outlined the cuts on Sept. 11, reporting that the library system planned to eliminate one and a half staff positions this budget year alongside the schedule changes. The library system then posted specific effective dates on its Facebook page 10 days later.

The Bryceville Branch Library will remain open on its regular schedule until Thursday, Oct. 29, its final day of operation. The building closes for good after that.

Library staff plan to install an outdoor locker system at the Bryceville site so patrons can still pick up materials. Cardholders will place holds through their online library accounts, and staff will deliver items to the locker. Patrons will receive a notification when their materials are ready. The site's outdoor book drop will also stay open for returns.

The library system said the schedule changes stem from a review of facility usage, staffing levels, operating costs and geographic coverage across the county. All other Nassau County library branches will keep their current hours.

Patrons with questions can reach the library system at (904) 530-6508 or visit nassaureads.com.

Upcoming community dates

  • Thursday, Oct. 1 — Saturday hours end at the Fernandina Beach Branch Library; Nassau County's new fiscal year budget takes effect.
  • Monday, Oct. 5 — Nassau County voter registration deadline for the upcoming election.
  • Thursday, Oct. 29 — Final day of operation for the Bryceville Branch Library.