Tampere extends self-service library hours from 1 September

The change affects all of the city’s self-service libraries and is part of the autumn timetable.

Most staffed service hours will remain unchanged for the autumn season, but self-service libraries will generally open an hour earlier and close an hour later than before.

Tampere currently has 11 self-service libraries (Härmälä, Kaukajärvi, Koivistonkylä, Koukkuniemi, Kämmenniemi, Lielahti, Messukylä, Nekala, Peltolammi, Terälä and Vuores). At these branches customers can borrow and return items at machines and pick up holds. They can use computers and printers, or read and work on site outside staffed hours.

Johanna Luukkonen, head of library services, said customers had asked for more evening access. She added that registering as self-service customers has reduced disturbances, allowing the city to extend hours.

The change takes effect the same day Tampere takes on a strengthened role in the PIKI library network from 1 September.

Several locations saw service changes earlier this year, including Messukylä's temporary closure for renovation Messukylä renovation and Nekala's reopening in a new cultural centre Nekala reopening.

Anyone registered as a self-service customer can use the libraries during unstaffed times. Registration is possible online or at staffed service points; under-15s need a guardian’s consent. Doors open with a PIKI library card and PIN. On public holidays libraries are closed; on holiday eves they close at 17:00, or at the normal closing time if earlier. Bookmobiles finish their routes by 16:00.