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About the Project

Extended Hours access at the Pittsburgh Branch provide Kingston East residents with more opportunities to use their public library branch, expanding access to a vibrant community space where they can connect and learn.  

This project offers a bridge to the planned building renovation and service expansion, with ongoing evaluation as the project is implemented. 

With the Extended Hours Project in place, the Pittsburgh Branch offers a blend of full service and Extended Hours access. Library staff continue to support patrons on site, maintaining a level of service of 40 staffed hours per week (two more than previous); Extended Hours users can connect with staff at other branches when assistance is needed via telephone.  

KFPL is committed to offering a welcoming and inclusive space for the community. The Library worked with organizations such as the Kingston Police to complete a safety audit, identifying and assessing safety risks and developing mitigation strategies. Community feedback was incorporated into the process.

Fall 2021: Branch Hours Review Community Survey 

December 2021: Community Information Open Houses 

Spring 2022: Library Facilities Plan Engagement 

Summer 2022: Review Library Facilities Plan recommendations 

Fall 2022 

  • Extended Hours Project planning phase 
  • Consultation with Kingston East residents to gather feedback on recommended implementation and risk mitigation strategies. 
  • Project Report to the Kingston Frontenac Public Library Board 

January 2023: Consult residents of Kingston East and other potential users of the Pittsburgh Branch on the best times/days for staffed operation and for Extended Hours operation. 

Fall 2023: Extended Hours Pilot Project starts at the Pittsburgh Branch 

Fall 2024:  

  • Survey on user satisfaction and opportunities for improvement. Read the Public Engagement Report (PDF 174 KB)
  • The Library Board approved a motion at their November 27, 2024 meeting to make the project permanent and add Sunday hours (mid October - mid April) effective January 5, 2025 

Frequently Asked Questions

The Pittsburgh Branch will continue to offer full service, with 40 hours for staff on site (2 hours more than previously). 

Extended Hours will offer a different level of service, providing alternate ways to use the Library. Patrons would be able to borrow and return materials, pick up reservations, and access public computers and Wi-Fi. They would also be able to use library space to study and connect with others in the community. 

No. The branch would not be accessible 24/7. Please check Pittsburgh Branch hours to review the staffed and extended hours access.  

No. The Pittsburgh Branch will be staffed for the same number of hours (plus two new hours), and at the same staffing level, as it is now. No jobs will be eliminated because of this project. 

Patrons need to pre-register in person at any branch, then use their library card and PIN to gain access using a door keypad.  

The self-service technology currently used at the Pittsburgh Branch enables patrons to borrow and return materials, and to access public computers and Wi-Fi. Video surveillance, already in place in other branches, was installed for added security. 

Patrons can call staff other branches when assistance is needed. 

Similar technology is in place in other libraries in Ontario where video surveillance, clear separation of staff and public areas and the pre-registration process have proven effective in safeguarding library property and materials. 

A comprehensive security review was conducted to identify and mitigate other health and safety concerns. 

Extended Hours access is only available to users who pre-register in person at any of our 16 library branches by providing identification and agreeing to the Extended Hours Terms of Use. Learn about the pre-registration process.

This is a pilot project intended to increase access to and use of the Pittsburgh Branch. The Extended Hours Project will be evaluated using both data and feedback from staff and patrons. Depending on the outcomes, Extended Hours may be considered as one option where there are similar needs. 

Interested parties would be surveyed at regular intervals.  

In the fall of 2024 KFPL surveyed current Extended Hour users, as well as those that listed the Pittsburgh Branch as their primary branch in the Library database. Results from that survey are included in the Public Engagement Report (PDF 174 KB).