Fall Happenings at Your Library
Check out what we have going on this Fall.
 
The library is working towards safely reopening this Fall. Starting September 28, 2020 the physical library is open by appointment for public computer usage, scanning and faxing only. Computer reservations are limited to one hour per day, per patron. Complimentary wireless printing and faxing is being provided (20 pages or less). We recognize that computer access is a critical information service especially during this time. In addition to public computer access, we will continue to offer enhanced outdoor WiFi in our parking lot and garden area. The physical library remains closed to the public for browsing, programs and other services. We are continuing to provide services for our community in alternate ways: 
 
1. Books to Go Program - contactless pickup of available holds in our lobby by appointment. 
 
2. Grab & Go Bags - Free gently used books are arranged by genre, author or category placed in plastic sealed bags on a cart at the entrance of the library. Simply pick up a bag(s) and enjoy these free books to keep. 
                                                           
3. Virtual Programming - Attend fun free events via Zoom. Craft classes, cooking demos and more! Registration required. 
 
 4. Dolly Parton's Imagination Library - Free books by mail for children from birth up to 5 years of age, statewide. Need assistance with registration? Give us a call at 302-539-5231. A valid email address is required for this program. 
 
New eNewsletters!
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South Coastal is proud to now offer our patrons emailed newsletters and updates. Stay current on library reopening plans, services, programs, and new books added to our collection. We have over 20 newsletters and 8 interest groups for you to join! Choose which topics interest you and stay informed!
 
How: At the very bottom of this email, please select "manage subscriptions". From here you can choose the newsletters that interest you, or unsubscribe if you wish. Need assistance, give us
a call. 
Public Computer Access 
 
Computer access by appointment starting Sept. 28, 2020 

Call to schedule an appointment
 
(302)539-5231 
Need computer access? Call to schedule an appointment for computer, faxing, or scanning use. Computer appointments are limited to one hour per day, per patron. Computer appointments are accepted Monday-Friday. Please call for appointment times. 
  • Computer stations are socially distanced from other patrons and are sanitized after each use by staff members. 
  • Patrons will be required to wear a mask, sanitize their hands, and be subject to a wellness screening and temperature check upon arrival. At this point the computer stations are only available for adult patrons (ages 18+). These are requirements for entry into Sussex County facilities. 
  • Printing, faxing and scanning services are available free of charge. (limit of 20 pages)
  • Due to social distancing requirements, staff are not able to provide direct computer/printing assistance at this time. 
  • Please note: For your safety and the safety of others, the public restrooms will remain closed. Please plan accordingly. We do apologize for any inconvenience. 
Events
Visit our Calendar of Events or subscribe to our programming interest groups for more events!
History of Fort Delaware
Do you know about Fort Delaware, a former Union prisoner camp, located on Pea Patch Island in Delaware City?  Find out in this special program via Zoom. Jake Miller, Interpretive Programs Manager at Fort Delaware State Park will talk about how Fort Delaware was built and about its special use during the American Civil War.
 
 
Fall inspired Crafts
 
Pick up a children's autumn craft kit. No appointment needed. Or register for our Scraps to Crafts: Wine Cork Pumpkin craft for adults! 
 
 
 
Go Virtual!
Free with your DE library Card.
Click on an image to get started!
 
 
Library FAQs
When will the library reopen for browsing? Why is the library only open for computer access? 
  •  Sussex County Government and Sussex County Department of Libraries are working safely to reopen to the public. Opening the book drop and implementing our Books to Go Program were the first steps towards reinstating library services. Allowing computer appointments is another critical step the library is taking to ensure equitable information access to the community. Please rest assured the library is working towards reopening. We will keep you informed on further reopening plans. 
Why are some libraries open and others remain closed? 
  • South Coastal Library is one of three Sussex County Government operated Libraries. Reopening decisions are based on the decisions of Sussex County Government Administration. There are 11 independent libraries governed by their own Board of Trustees/Commissioners. Each library is following their own governing agency and trying to do what is best for their community and staff. Watch this short video for more information.
Why are the items I returned still on my account? 
  • Please allow at least 72 hours for items returned to be checked in and cleared from your account. We need this time to quarantine materials so they can safely be handled by the next patron. There are no late fines through December 31, 2020.
COMING SOON! Click on a book cover to be taken to our DE catalog. 
 
Looking for something different? Let us "browse" for you via our personal librarian service. 
 
 
Library Temporary Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm
Friday: 10 am to 4 pm
Saturday: 10 am to 3 pm
*The physical library remains closed except for computer usage by appointment only. Computer appointments are not accepted on Saturdays*
 
302-539-5231
https://southcoastal.lib.de.us/