Post office workers busy with holiday rush

By Sam Waller

Those intending to send Christmas packages through the U.S. Postal Service should start soon to ensure presents are delivered before Christmas Day.

Albany postmaster Laura Gilbreath said packages posted by Friday, Dec. 16, should arrive at their destination before the holiday.

Gilbreath said the Albany Post Office will maintain its regular hours through Friday, Dec. 23. Hours are 8:00-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“We’re closed 11:30 to 12:30 for lunch,” Gilbreath said. “Saturdays, if people want to come before 10:30 a.m., they may pick packages up at the wooden door.”

Gilbreath encouraged postal customers to make sure parcels are ready before bringing them to the post office.

“Packages need to be addressed and the boxes taped up and ready to go when customers bring them in unless they need to purchase the items to do that,” she said. “We have all sizes of boxes, tape, and bubble wrap.”

Gilbreath also advised those receiving packages through the mail to pick up packages promptly as storage space will be limited during the holiday season.

Gilbreath said Amazon shipments only add to the situation. Postal customers will receive notices of Amazon deliveries in their P.O. boxes with packages often placed in storage lockers, as long as space allows.