With extended power outages expected for several days, the City of Birmingham is opening the Baldwin Public Library as a temporary overnight warming station for Birmingham residents.
The Baldwin Public Library, located at 300 West Merrill, will extend its normal hours until 9 p.m. on Friday, February 24 and Saturday, February 25.
A temporary overnight warming center will be available in the lower level of the Baldwin Library from Friday, February 24 at 9:00 p.m. to Saturday, February 25 at 9:30 a.m., and from Saturday, February 25 at 9:00 p.m. to Sunday, February 26 at noon.
Mayor Therese Longe urges the citizens of Birmingham to check on family, friends, neighbors,
pets, and especially the elderly during this power outage to ensure everyone stays healthy
and safe.
Any citizen needing transportation to the temporary warming station may call the Birmingham Police Department's non-emergency number at 248-530-1870.
Warming Center Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be able to use public computers and other library services overnight at the temporary warming station?
Library services will not be available during overnight warming station hours from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 a.m. Users of the temporary warming station are encouraged to rest, eat, or charge devices while in the library.
How do I enter the warming station?
Please sign up ahead of time online at www.baldwinlib.org/warming-center or by calling 248-554-4637. To enter the temporary overnight warming station, please use the main entrance of the library along Merrill Street. The doors will be locked through the night, but staff will open the doors for registered users.
Where is the warming station located?
The warming station is located at the Baldwin Public Library (300 W. Merrill, Birmingham, MI 48009) in the lower level Rotary Donor Room and hallway.
Who can use the warming station?
Due to limited capacity, the overnight warming station is intended for residents of Birmingham.
What is the capacity of the warming station?
Our current capacity is 60 people.
Can I eat in the warming station?
Yes, tables will be set up in the lower level hallway for visitors to use.
Are there any other warming stations available in Oakland County?
A full list of warming stations in Oakland County is available at this link.
Where should I park while using the temporary warming station?
Please park in the Chester Street garage. Parking will be available at no charge through the weekend.
Will there be security measures in place throughout the night?
Birmingham police officers will be at the library during warming station hours.
Can I bring my pet to the warming station?
Service animals are allowed and must be secured at all times. Owners are responsible for picking up and disposing of their animals’ waste.
Will food and water be provided?
Coffee and water will be provided. Vending machines are available on site.
Are beds available?
A limited number of small cots will be available for children.
What type of items should I bring with me?
Please limit personal belongings. We suggest bringing a blanket and pillow, electronic devices that need to be charged, prescription medication, and personal care items.
Users of the warming station must respect the following guidelines:
- Please bring your own reading material and any other personal items you require.
- Amplified sound devices are prohibited.
- Please supply your own food and snacks. Vending machines are available on site.
- Please note, that there are no medical services provided at the Center.
- Please keep noise levels to a minimum between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
- Children under 13 must be supervised by a responsible adult.
- Service animals must be secured at all times. Owners are responsible for picking up and disposing of their animals’ waste.
- Physical and verbal violence or threats of violence toward other warming station users are prohibited.
- Do not bring alcohol or illegal drugs into the warming station.
- Those who violate these guidelines may be asked to leave the warming station.
