All Brant County Public Library Branches Will Re-Open On Tuesday

Sunday, 16 August 2020 08:58

Enhanced cleaning will be among the several new protocols in place when all branches re-open this week. Virtual services will continue and curbside pickup will still be available.

BRANT COUNTY - All branches of the Brant County Public Library will be reopening to the public on Tuesday.

There will be in-person services including collection browsing, computer use, in-branch holds pickup and more.

Each branch will have new opening hours so customers are encouraged to call or visit The Public Library's website for details.

Library CEO Kelly Bernstein says they're happy to reopen again.

“Throughout the COVID closure, we’ve heard from so many people how much they miss visiting the library. Our online and curbside services have been very popular, but nothing replaces a face-to-face connection, and we’re thrilled to add in-branch service back to our offerings.”

The safety and well-being of library staff and patrons is paramount, so there will be several new protocols in place including restricting building occupancy to maintain social distancing, enhanced cleaning, and limiting some in-branch services to reduce the risk of exposure.

Bernstein says the facility will look a little different under the new protocols.

"Everyone will be asked to sanitize their hands at the door, and we’ll be limiting the number of people allowed in at one time. We’ve installed acrylic screens and removed most seating areas.” To comply with Provincial restrictions, indoor programming will not be available.

Customers should also wear a face mask in compliance with the County’s face covering by-law.

The Public Library says opening their doors is a big step forward, but virtual services will continue, including the personalized Book-a-Talk service, online programs for children and adults and increased access to the many online borrowing and research collections. Hoopla, Libby, Flipster will be among the collections available. Curbside pickup will also still be available.

You can go here to learn more information on the Library's reopening plans under Stage 3 or call the main branch in Paris at 519-442-2433.