The Wasatch County library has made big changes since closing March 17. For months, patrons were only able to reserve books online and do parking lot pickups. However,
According to Library Director Juan Lee, the delayed reopening was in response to a desire to ensure that once the library opened, it would remain open. Lee explained that the modified schedule provides a shorter patron window to minimize exposure. It also gives library employees time to clean high traffic areas.
Lee said that the library has two goals for the reopening. The first is to be a responsible member of the community. The second goal is to ensure that families feel welcome and safe.
“The library for many years was the living room of the community,” said Lee. “Under the current conditions, we had to change a little bit. We are hopeful to return back to normal soon.”
For now, study rooms and meeting spaces are closed. Fewer computers are available and are spaced out to allow for social distancing. Surfaces and materials are cleaned regularly, and in-person programming is postponed.
March 17. For months, patrons were only able to reserve books online and do parking lot pickups. However, the library is now open for limited hours, in order to provide a return to semi-normalcy for visitors.
According to Library Director Juan Lee, the delayed reopening was in response to a desire to ensure that once the library opened, it would remain open. Lee explained that the modified schedule provides a shorter patron window to minimize exposure. It also gives library employees time to clean high traffic areas.
Lee said that the library has two goals for the reopening. The first is to be a responsible member of the community. The second goal is to ensure that families feel welcome and safe.
“The library for many years was the living room of the community,” said Lee. “Under the current conditions, we had to change a little bit. We are hopeful to return back to normal soon.”
For now, study rooms and meeting spaces are closed. Fewer computers are available and are spaced out to allow for social distancing. Surfaces and materials are cleaned regularly, and in-person programming is postponed.
Lee explained that the library’s classes tend to be very well-attended, and the close contact in those activities makes it challenging to reopening them. Unfortunately for library patrons, Miss Sally’s extremely popular children’s classes have also been discontinued. She is now working in the library of a local elementary school.
Curbside pickup, which has been available since earlier this year, will continue for those who prefer it. Materials are requested online, and an email is sent when they are ready. Otherwise, the library is now open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 11:00am to 3:00pm, and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. For more information, visit the library’s website at http://www.wasatch.lib.ut.us/.
