More than books: How public libraries became cooling centers in Cumberland County
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- As temperatures soar across Cumberland County, public libraries are emerging as vital sanctuaries, offering residents much-needed relief from the relentless summer heat.
"You step outside, and it feels like you're getting wrapped in a sauna," said Billie Stump, a local mother who often visits the library on Maiden Lane with her two children.
"Because a lot of the slides and stuff get too hot for the kids. And the other day, we were playing at the park and my son got overheated. So we've been trying to find places inside to play."
Residents across the county are feeling the effects of the sweltering weather.
"Standing out here, I'm sweating really bad," said Lourdes Gomez-Howard of Cumberland County.
For others, the heat is more than just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous.
"Girl, it's like, wow," said Fayetteville resident Xavior Knix. "I walked out to my car two seconds ago, and I'm already sweating."
For many families, seeking air-conditioned spaces has become part of the daily routine.
"I'm getting books, and we were going to eat outside. Except it was really hot, so we had to come inside," Gomez-Howard said.
That's where Cumberland County's public libraries are stepping in to fill a critical need.
Of the county's 13 free cooling centers, eight are public libraries.
According to China Gault, an emergency management planner for Cumberland County, the locations were chosen to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.
"We want to make sure our locations are diversified, spread throughout the community and provide equal access and opportunity," Gault said. "We also want them to be inclusive of all demographics and age groups."
Gault emphasized the importance of not underestimating the dangers of extreme heat.
"We've been having really hot summers lately, and a lot of people underestimate how warm it is and the danger it presents," Gault said. "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."
The partnership between emergency management officials and library staff has been key, she said.
"We have a really good partnership with our library staff," Gault said. "They've always been great at coordinating and connecting with us. They help us a lot during what we call our 'blue-sky days,' which are our normal operations."
Libraries in Cumberland County began serving as official cooling centers in 2023.
For families like the Stumps, the benefits extend beyond escaping the heat.
"Having a place where you can bring your kids and meet other people is a really great thing," Stump said. "As a parent, it can already feel isolating when you have young children."
Additional information on finding cooling centers in Cumberland County can be found on the cumberlandcountync.gov site.
