Libraries remain temporarily closed to the public COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – After weeks of temporary facility closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pikes Peak Library District is ready to circulate physical books and materials throughout the community once again. On Wednesday, May 13, PPLD will launch its first-ever curbside service model, allowing patrons to safely and easily return materials and pick up items without having any direct contact with Library staff or other patrons.
“While our libraries must remain closed to the public for the time being per the safer-at-home order, curbside service will allow us to accept returns and deliver the holds our patrons have been patiently waiting for,” says Chief Librarian & CEO John Spears. “After working closely with El Paso County Public Health, we feel confident this model will be safe and workable for both staff and patrons, which is our top priority.”
PPLD’s book drops and return bins will be available 24/7 outside of each library location, so patrons can return their library materials whenever it is convenient for them. Curbside service hours and procedures will vary by location, so patrons should check their Library’s curbside schedule and instructions prior to visiting their local Library at either ppld.org/curbside or by calling (719) 531-6333, option 3.
Patrons can still use the Library remotely, as they have been able to throughout the library’s temporary closure. Information on accessing PPLD’s digital collection, virtual programs, and other remote opportunities are available at ppld.org/remote.
“We’ve worked hard behind the scenes to make our digital resources available and provide new experiences virtually during our temporary closure,” Spears says. “We’re excited that PPLD can now expand those services since not everyone can easily and readily use the Library remotely from home.”
All returned materials will be quarantined for 72 hours before being processed and circulated, exceeding public health recommendations. The PPLD team will work at half capacity within libraries to comply with the safer-at-home order, as well as follow other public health guidance like wearing face coverings, washing hands, and maintaining proper distance during any in-person interactions.
### Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) seeks to engage and transform people’s lives by providing equitable access to information, enrichment opportunities, and community connections via 16 facilities, online resources, and mobile library services. It is a nationally recognized system of public libraries serving a population of more than 660,000 across 2,070 square miles in El Paso County, Colo.