Oregon Public Broadcasting

Excessive heat warnings are in effect for inland parts of Western Oregon Monday. April Baer reports, many communities have free ways to get away from the heat.

Your best bet in most parts of the Valley is a local library.

Sonja Sommerville with the Salem Public Library says the doors are open, and people in Marion County are more than welcome to come in and cool off.

Sonja Sommerville "In fact we've been encouraging it. We do usually see extra visitors on really hot days."

Mondays, Salem's main library is closed, but the West Salem branch is open.

Health Departments from Washington County to Lane County are recommending people head for malls or other cool spots, and check on elderly neighbors, or anyone else who may have problems getting out of the heat.

If you live in Portland, the Parks and Rec department invites you to try the spray spigots in public parks. Many lap pools and wading pools will be keeping extended hours through Wednesday to accommodate the crowds.