Belmar Library Providing 'Cooling Center'

Belmar residents and visitors looking to "beat the heat" during these anticipated upcoming miserably hot days can seek shelter from the soaring temperatures at the Belmar Library's media room, officials said. 

Mayor Matt Doherty announced in Thursday release that he asked the library will set up a cooling center in its lower level for when outside temperatures become unbearable for residents and visitors. 

Doherty said guests will also be able to watch movies -- the library has more than 1000 DVDs in its collection -- on a new flat-screen TV, while staff also provide free water, coffee, tea and cappuccino.  

“We need to ensure our residents and visitors can escape the uncomfortable temperatures and be in a safe place that provides entertainment and a social network,” Doherty said in the release. 

Area temperatures this week are expected to hit 90 degrees Friday and Saturday before cooling back down to 83 degrees on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. 

The library is located at 517 Tenth Avenue and is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. 

The lower level Cooling Center will remain open until Labor Day or longer, if needed. 

For more information, please call the library at (732) 681-0775.