Pearl River Library Providing Power, Internet, Activities

Pearl River Public Library never lost power and suffered no damage during Hurricane Sandy, but it was closed early Tuesday due to travel restrictions in the area.

Library Director Kathy Rose heard that Orangetown Town Hall was setting up a comfort station with power and internet access and thought the library could do the same, so she checked if the employees who live close to the library could come in.

They agreed and the library re-opened 3 p.m. Tuesday, giving residents somewhere to go to charge electronic devices, connect to the internet and warm up as many are still without power.

"We were very fortunate," Rose said. "People have been great. They are coming in and using us for what they need. They are very appreciative.

"People who don't know one another are sitting together. Patrons are helping each other."

The library is also providing entertainment for children such as arts and crafts and showing movies.

The library did lose its primary internet connection Friday morning due to Cablevision being down, but they were able to get the wireless connection back up for patrons later in the morning by using a fiber optic backup line which they share with other libraries in the RCLS system.

"We are asking everyone limit viewing of YouTube and any video which takes up bandwidth," Rose said.

Rose said the plan is to be open normal hours this weekend, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Other Locations with Power, Internet

Places to connect to the internet are limited, though Jane on Main in Pearl River's connection came back up late Friday morning. Jane on Main has also been open for people to charge electronics and use the wifi this week.

Mick Metal of Revolution Tattoo on Main Street said his shop is open and will provide power, wifi and fresh water for those who stop by.

Emmett's Castle at Blue Hill is open for lunch and dinner, but also has wifi and places for people to charge their devices.