The Gray Branch will begin a soft opening on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. A soft opening allows us to welcome the community while we continue to “live test” our systems and to complete the final touches.

A soft opening means the library will be open to the public with limited hours and services while staff finalizes the building, technology, and procedures. This helps us ensure everything works smoothly before our full grand opening. You can help us during this phase by visiting, exploring the space, and sharing feedback.

Week 1 (March 18–20): Wednesday – Friday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Week 2 (March 23 – 27) and Week 3 (March 30 – April 3) Monday – Friday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM     Week 4 – 6 (April 6 – 10, 13 – 17, 20 – 24) M, W, Thurs, Fri 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM   Tuesday 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM   Please note that this timeline is subject to change at the discretion of the Washington County Library Board of Trustees. Any change in hours will be updated here and through social media.

Tentative full hours will begin on Monday, April 27, 2026. Regular hours are expected to be: • Monday: 9 AM – 6 PM • Tuesday: 9 AM – 8 PM • Wednesday: 9 AM – 6 PM • Thursday: 9 AM – 6 PM • Friday: 9 AM – 6 PM • Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM

During the first phase of the soft opening, the following services will be available: • Browsing the collection • Checking items in and out • Placing a limited number of holds on materials from the Gray and Jonesborough branches • Copying services To help us manage inventory during the early weeks, checkouts will initially be limited to 5 items per card, including up to 5 DVDs and 4 audiobooks.

Some services will be introduced later in the soft opening period as we continue preparing the branch. These services will not be available during the first phase: • Interlibrary loan and lending between regional library consortia • Programs and events • Meeting room reservations • Partner or community display tables • Public computer use and printing • Faxing • Curbside pickup

Phase 2 will begin on Monday, April 6th. Services will expand to include: ·       Return borrowing limits to the original amount of 45 total, 5 DVDs and 4 Audiobooks ·       Courier – OWL consortia and lending between JBO and Gray branches ·       Allow patron computer use and printing and copying ·       Faxing ·       Curbside pickup Please note that this timeline are subject to change at the discretion of the Washington County Library Board of Trustees. Any changes will be updated here on the website.

Yes, but during the early phase of the soft opening the book drops may remain closed while the building is open. Later in the soft opening period, the book drops will be opened for after-hours returns. (Date to be determined.)

No, not during the initial phase of the soft opening. Details will be shared below as the library expands services to include regional sharing.

Programs will begin after the grand opening. Children’s programming at the Gray Branch is currently planned to begin with the Summer Reading kickoff.

Meeting room reservations will begin after the grand opening, once new procedures and scheduling guidelines are finalized.

Opening a new library building involves many moving parts—technology systems, building operations, staffing workflows, and logistics with our regional partners. Phasing in services helps us: • Ensure everything works properly • Train staff in the new space • Provide the best experience possible for our community

Visit the library, explore the space, and let us know what you think! Your feedback during this pilot period will help us prepare for a successful grand opening and long-term service at the Gray Branch.

The grand opening is still being planned by the Washington County Library Board of Trustees. Dates and details will be announced after plans are finalized. Thank you for your patience and excitement as we open the Gray Branch! We’re thrilled to bring this new library space to the community and look forward to welcoming you soon.