Southwest Public Libraries (SPL) continues to prioritize safe service and will reopen buildings for limited access with modified services beginning Monday, Oct. 5. SPL’s current no-contact holds pickup service model will end after Oct. 3, and patrons will no longer need to call to schedule a time to pick up held items.
Beginning Oct. 5, patrons will be able to freely enter the library to:
- Pick up holds anytime during service hours
- Browse and borrow from a limited, curated collection of materials
- Use a computer by appointment
- Print, copy, scan, or fax
Masks or face coverings will be required while in the building and hours of service will remain:
- Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Wednesday and Thursday from 12 to 7 p.m.
Returns will continue to be accepted only during service hours.
SPL has operated under a no-contact service model since May and is excited to take this next step in the library’s responsible reopening plan. During this limited reopening phase, computer use will be limited and available by scheduled appointment only. Open browsing of aisles will remain unavailable at this time; however, staff are happy to assist with finding and retrieving titles for patrons from the shelves. Seating is limited and meeting rooms and study rooms remain unavailable. All programming and activities will continue to be offered virtually or as grab and go kits until gatherings are safe again.
“Library service will remain different as long as COVID-19 is a threat,” says SPL Director Mark Shaw, “but we are excited to finally be able to welcome patrons again. We will continue to prioritize safe service while adjusting to pandemic developments.”
SPL will operate under limited services and access as described while the county remains under a level Orange health alert. The library intends to expand services and access once the alert is downgraded to Yellow but will return to a no-contact service model should the county return to alert level Red.
The library is prepared to welcome patrons safely having implemented many protective measures, including altering layouts and service practices to support social distancing and minimize contact, increasing sanitizing and disinfecting of high-contact areas, and following materials quarantine procedures as recommended by results from a study conducted by Battelle.
Patrons can learn more about current library news, services, and programming at swpl.org.
