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Date: 11/11/2020
SOUTHWICK – As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Southwick Public Library is open by appointment and curbside pickup along with eliminating its overdue fees.
Library Director Lynn Blair said between the appointment times and curbside pickup, the library has seen a good reception since the pandemic restrictions began.
“It’s been very good; everyone seems to be happy that we’re here and offering our normal services. The curbside is very convenient for people who just want to grab and go and don’t feel comfortable coming inside yet,” she said.
As part of the current hours, visitors can make an hour-long appointment at the library by calling 569-1221.
“We have 10 appointments for browsing and four for computers, so when people call to schedule, they can let us know what they want to do. We haven’t ever filled up any hours so we’re normally able to accommodate anybody who calls last minute or shows up if they forgot to make an appointment,” Blair said.
Blair added that the library is following strict cleaning procedures for the building and computers to prevent COVID’s spread and kill any germs.
“Our custodian cleans the building every evening, we give them a good spray down with disinfectant every morning and we actually have wipes bagged up so we ask people to give it a wipe down before and after they jump on. We quarantine all of our items that come back in for week just out of precaution,” she said.
Since eliminating overdue fees at the library, she said there has been a positive response from the community.
“The trustees voted to approve it on Oct. 13 and then we had to figure out the logistics with our library system on how to actually get it into effect. So far it has been a very positive response, people are appreciative of it and I think it was a good move overall for us,” Blair said.
Currently, the library is working on clearing overdue fees for residents that have not been able to get into the library.
“We’re working on clearing the fees that have accrued in the past for people, so if somebody ever had their card blocked and that prevented them for coming in, we’re clearing everything for the future and the past. We’re hoping that encourages some people to start coming back and using us again,” she said.