City of Virginia Beach Opens Cooling Centers July 3-5 Due to Extreme Heat

With heat index values forecasted to be 100 degrees and above throughout the region, the City of Virginia Beach will open two Virginia Beach Public Library (VBPL) branches as cooling centers from noon to 5 p.m., July 3-5. This operational change updates the previously released Independence Day holiday schedule sent out last week.

The following public library locations will be open as cooling centers: 

• Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library, 4100 Virginia Beach Blvd. 
  The lobby, restrooms and meeting rooms will be open to the public. All other library spaces and services, including computers and access to library materials, will remain closed. 

• Princess Anne Area Library, 1444 Nimmo Parkway 
  The entire building will be open with access to books, computers, etc.  

The Housing Resource Center (HRC) also will be open daily from noon to 5 p.m., July 3-5, to offer cooling shelter only (no food services) to individuals experiencing homelessness in Virginia Beach.  

Families with minor children experiencing homelessness should call the HRC during the aforementioned operating hours at 757-385-5167. 

Residents are urged to use these cooling centers if needed, limit outdoor activities and check on family members, neighbors and pets during the heatwave. For more information and updates, visit VirginiaBeach.gov.