I hope that you all are managing well as we move into Phase 2 of the state's re-opening plan. As always, the health and safety of our staff and patrons are the prime consideration as we work to restore our services. I thought I would take this opportunity to update some of our FAQs that we have received from our patrons. Please don't hesitate to contact me at karendemers@wilbrahamlibrary.org if you have any questions or would like to provide some feedback.
Karen Demers, Library Director
How long will you be closed to the public?
The short answer is that we really don't know. The library is following the guidelines issued by the state's re-opening plan. We began offering curbside pickup on June 1 will continue work in this manner throughout Phase 2. At some point during Phase 3, we hope to offer limited appointments for public browsing and computer use – however, we are still working on installing physical dividers and figuring out the restroom challenge.
How will I know when the library reopens or expands services?
Announcements will be made on the Town Website, Library Website, via Social Media and email alerts.
What is the current staffing situation?
As the library has challenges meeting the social distancing requirements within our office spaces, we have divided our staff into two teams – we work at least of four hours in the building and then do some work from home. Staff are currently in the building 9am-5pm Monday through Friday. If a staff member becomes ill with COVID-19, we may need to alter our schedule.
If you need to contact an individual staff member, please refer to the Staff Directory email.
How can I return materials?
Books and media may be returned in the library book or media drop. Appointments may be made to return large items like puppets, Book kits,or STEAM materials.
Due dates and late fees
There will be no late fees for any items – Wilbraham materials as well as other libraries through September 30th. The C/W MARS network had automatically changed the due date for items checked out prior to COVID to July 1. The automatic renewal feature was temporarily suspended, so some items checked out may not renew on their own. Patrons may renew manually online or call us for assistance.
Holds
The C/W MARS network will allow you to place holds for items from other libraries, however, each library may be sending out their items according to different schedules. While we used to say that we could have an item sent to us within three days, the current situation means that it will likely be closer to three weeks.
Will you deliver books to homes?
Yes. We provide outreach delivery service to Wilbraham residents who are homebound. In the past, it was mostly seniors or people who were recuperating from surgeries who took advantage of this service. Now, however, we are happy to deliver materials to anyone who does not feel comfortable leaving their homes. Our staff will drop off materials on a porch or other location where we can maintain a contact-free environment.
Are you able to take book and media donations?
Not at this time. Since we need to quarantine all materials that are being returned to the library – both from our book and media drops as well as from the state's delivery service, we have the challenge of storing materials. We are currently using our Brooks Room as the quarantine center. We simply cannot handle the volume of materials at this time if we were to open it up to donations. This may change in the future once the backlog of materials are picked up by the state's delivery service.
What are you doing about library programs?
Programs for all ages have always been an important service. At this time, we have had to cancel all in-person programs and will follow the state's guidelines for groups. We are offering our Summer Reading Program entirely online this year and are looking into planning some virtual programs. Stay tuned to the library's website and social media pages for announcements.
What cleaning and sanitizing is being done at the library? The library is cleaned regularly by our custodian. Library staff regularly wash hands and disinfect computers,and use face coverings and gloves. Materials are being quarantined for at least 72 hours before being put back into circulation.The library is also investing in keyboard and mouse disposable sleeves for when we offer in-library services in Phase 3.
Is the WiFi available to the public?
The WiFi is available in our parking lot. No password is required to log in.
Wilbraham Public Library
25 Crane Park Drive
Wilbraham, Massachusetts 01095
413.596.6141
http://www.wilbrahamlibrary.org