Press release from Buncombe County Government:
Beginning Tuesday, Oct. 13, most Buncombe County Public Library branches will reopen to the public with limited hours and services. The safety of our patrons and staff is our highest priority, and our General Services staff has been working diligently to finish precautions to allow metered access in accordance with the Governor’s orders for 50 percent capacity. We look forward to welcoming you back in person.
The library schedule will be:
· Tuesday, 2-7 p.m.
· Wednesday, 1-6 p.m.
· Thursday, 1-6 p.m.
· Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
· Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
· Sunday & Monday, Closed
The East Asheville Library remains closed for construction and Pack Library will reopen for service at a later date.
During these hours, the libraries will provide in-person check out and browsing. As we comply with reduced occupancy limits, we are encouraging brief “grab and go” visits to allow us to serve a larger number of patrons. Computer use is available, and seating will be provided for computer users only. The meeting rooms and study spaces will not be available for public use. In-person library programs, including storytime, will not be offered, however, virtual programs will continue to be available. Learn more here. Curbside hold pickups will stop on Oct. 8. Late fees will resume on Oct. 27.
Our local history room is currently undergoing renovations, but the NC Room staff will continue to provide phone and email research assistance at (828) 250-4740 or packnc@buncombecounty.org.
Per the Governor’s mandate, all persons over the age of five will be asked to wear a face covering for the duration of their visit in the library. If you don’t have a face covering, we can provide one for you.
We understand there are patrons who will not feel comfortable visiting the library, we encourage you to please call our Ask-A-Librarian line at (828) 250-4700 for assistance with services that are available for you, and our digital library is always open.
Four services that will continue for home library use:
· Download Books from Our Digital Library
· Book Recommendations with Bookfix
· Parking Lot WiFi Hotspots at Every Library
· Need a Library Card? You Can Get One by Email
We are grateful for our community’s patience and the commitment of our staff while our services have been modified to minimize opportunities to spread COVID-19. Buncombe County has taken precautions and audited our public-facing facilities to determine the safest way to operate.
At each library we have:
· Installed plexiglass barriers where needed
· Increased sanitation and cleaning schedules
· Increased public accessibility of hand sanitizer and disposable face coverings
· Added social distancing markers and signage
Additionally, the County has created comprehensive internal procedures for employees to foster a safe workplace, including a daily employee self-screening tool.
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