Visitors asked to limit their stay to one hour
By Staff Report
Welcome back to the library. With Santa Clara County under the orange tier of the state’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy plan, Santa Clara County Library District announced patrons will be able to enjoy expanded building access with up to 50 percent occupancy starting April 19.
Visitors will be allowed to browse the full library collection and enjoy computer and printing services at Gilroy, Morgan Hill, Los Altos, Milpitas, Cupertino, and Saratoga libraries Monday through Saturday. Hours will also be expanded and announced at a later date. Library events will continue to be held virtually.
Staff at the Gilroy Library are happy the community will soon enjoy expanded building access under the guidelines, said Gilroy Community Librarian Cassandra Wong. All library system buildings were closed to the public in mid-March 2020 due to the COVID-19 crisis.
“Visitors will be able to browse the full library collection and enjoy computer and printing services. We are excited to welcome you back to the library,” she said.
Morgan Hill Community Librarian Heather Geddes said the library is so much more than just a building with books to loan.
“We are an open forum promoting knowledge, ideas, and cultural enrichment,” she said. “This past year we have fulfilled our mission in some very unique ways with virtual and curbside services. As we open up our building for full access to our collection, we are one step closer to being the public space we and our patrons have enjoyed in the past.”
County Librarian Jennifer Weeks said she is excited to welcome patrons back into the library.
“It has been a challenging year, and we thank our patrons for their patience,” she said. “Due to the hard work and flexibility of our staff, the District has provided a wide variety of in-person and virtual library services that evolved along with the changing COVID-19 guidelines.”
Modifications have been made for the health and safety of patrons and staff. Visitors are asked to limit their stay up to one hour. They must also be COVID-19 symptom free, wear a face covering and maintain social distance. Hand sanitizer is available to patrons as they enter and exit the library. Use of the self-service machines to check out items is encouraged. Patrons will need to have their library card with them, or know their library card number and PIN to use the self-check machines. Patrons can call (408) 540-3945 for assistance.
“This is wonderful news for Santa Clara County Library District patrons!” said Mike Wasserman, president of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors and Chair of the Library Joint Powers Authority Board. “It’s encouraging to see more businesses, schools and our libraries able to welcome residents back. The Library District offers free resources and services for residents of all ages and is an important part of every strong community.”
Patrons may still arrange for contactless curbside service, where a staff member will bring a patron’s items to their vehicle. Appointments can be made online or by calling (408) 540-3947. Account and reference service will continue by phone, email, or chat.
Visit www.sccld.org for more details.
