ISSAQUAH, WA — King County Library System (KCLS) is expanding Sunday hours at the Vashon and Mercer Island libraries. Vashon will be open on Sundays beginning Aug. 24, and Mercer Island will expand hours later this fall. This latest expansion reflects KCLS’s ongoing efforts to use community feedback and meet community needs across its 50 community libraries.
“I’m thrilled that we’re expanding Sunday hours at both Vashon Library and Mercer Island Library,” said Executive Director Heidi Daniel. “This isn’t just about opening our doors another day—it’s about creating more opportunities for people to connect with one another, access vital resources, and feel a deeper sense of belonging in their library. At KCLS, we’re committed to listening to our communities and responding in ways that reflect their needs. I’m proud of our staff, grateful for community input, and excited to see how this change strengthens our connection with the people we serve.”
The addition of Sunday hours at Vashon and Mercer Island follows the successful launch of seven-day service at Sammamish Library in April, where growing demand and increased checkouts prompted the shift. These changes reflect KCLS’s values to foster equity, inclusion, and access to information for all across King County.
“Libraries are where so many of our community priorities come together—from supporting families with accessible learning spaces to giving small businesses and workers places to connect and thrive,” said King County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, whose Council District 8 includes Vashon Island. “I’m proud to support KCLS’ efforts to expand Sunday hours at the Vashon Library. This is a meaningful investment in our island community—one that improves access to resources, supports families, and makes our library even more welcoming and accessible for all.”
Vashon Island is a ferry dependent community, and it can be difficult for residents to access other libraries on Sundays. In addition to the ample community feedback that helped spur the change, Mercer Island serves large populations of Jewish and Muslim patrons, some of whom can’t easily visit their library during other days of the week due to religious reasons.
“Our community expressed the need for more access to our library’s resources, programs, and welcoming spaces,” said City of Mercer Island Mayor Salim Nice. “Expanding the Mercer Island Library’s hours is a direct response to that need, ensuring that the library continues to serve as a vibrant hub for learning and connection.”
For more information about library hours and services, visit kcls.org.
About King County Library System
Founded in 1942, King County Library System (KCLS) is one of the largest public library systems in the country. Supporting the communities of King County (outside the city of Seattle), KCLS has 50 libraries and serves approximately 1.6 million people. In 2024, residents checked out 10.3 million digital eBooks and audiobooks through OverDrive, making KCLS the second-highest digital circulating library system in the U.S.
Media contacts:
Dominique Miciano (Vashon)
Kristen Gowdy DeSio (Mercer Island)