FAYETTEVILLE — As summer temperatures climb across Cumberland County, public libraries in Fayetteville have become more than quiet places to borrow books: they are serving as essential cooling centers for residents seeking relief from dangerous heat.
Libraries fill a community need
County officials say that of 13 free cooling centers available to residents, eight are public libraries. The choice to use library buildings reflects goals to make relief locations accessible and familiar to a wide range of residents while leveraging existing staff and hours.
China Gault, an emergency management planner for Cumberland County, said locations were selected to ensure they are "diversified, spread throughout the community and provide equal access and opportunity." She cautioned residents not to underestimate the danger of extreme heat and urged anyone feeling unwell to seek a cooler environment.
"We want people to understand how dangerous extreme heat can be. If you're not feeling well or need a cool place to go, get out of the elements," Gault said.
Local parents and residents describe the heat in vivid terms, underscoring why indoor, air-conditioned spaces matter. "You step outside, and it feels like you're getting wrapped in a sauna," said one mother who visits the Maiden Lane library with her children. Another resident said simply, "I walked out to my car two seconds ago, and I'm already sweating."
How libraries and officials are coordinating
The partnership between emergency management officials and library staff has been central to rolling out the cooling center network. Libraries already operate as community hubs, and officials say that model aids efforts to reach varied demographics, including families with children and older adults.
Library staff have adapted services and spaces to accommodate visitors seeking refuge from the heat, while county planners have publicized available sites so residents know where to go. Officials emphasized inclusivity — ensuring locations are spread throughout the county so travel time and accessibility are not barriers.
- Number of county cooling centers: 13
- Libraries designated as cooling centers: 8
- Primary goals: accessibility, inclusivity, public safety
| Type | Number |
|---|---|
| Public libraries serving as cooling centers | 8 |
| Other designated cooling centers | 5 |
| Total county cooling centers | 13 |
Local impact and practical realities
Residents say seeking air-conditioned spaces has become part of daily routine for many families. Parents described altering outdoor plans — delaying picnics or playground visits — in favor of indoor activities at libraries and other cooling sites. For some, the centers provide more than a break from heat; they are a place to access resources, information and community services.
Emergency management officials noted that recent summers have been notably hot and urged residents to pay attention to heat warnings, recognize signs of heat-related illness and make use of available cooling centers when needed. Library-based cooling centers offer a tangible, immediate option for Fayetteville residents to escape high temperatures without cost.
Officials also stressed that cooling centers are intended to be inclusive, accommodating all ages and needs. The combined effort between county emergency planners and library staff aims to ensure that those who are most vulnerable — children, the elderly and people with preexisting health conditions — have convenient options to find relief from extreme heat.
As Fayetteville navigates another season of high temperatures, the expansion of library services to include cooling centers illustrates how local institutions can adapt to meet public-health needs while maintaining core community roles.
