Limited indoor library services resume with new restrictions and regulations
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – After 15 weeks of closed doors at libraries in the region, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is ready to welcome patrons back inside.
On Wed., July 1, PPLD will resume limited indoor Library services at almost all facilities and mobile libraries.
“We’re so excited to welcome patrons back into their public libraries,” said Chief Librarian & CEO John Spears. “While we did everything we could to continue serving the community during our temporary closure, we know this step will further ensure our resources are as accessible as possible.”
Available services include the ability to browse the physical collection, use self-checkout kiosks and service desks, make 55-minute reservations to use on-site computers, use fax and copier machines, and charge personal devices.
Restrictions will be in place to ensure the health and safety of Library staff and patrons, adhering to public health recommendations and guidance from El Paso County Public Health. For example, face coverings or masks will be required to enter all libraries, a decision unanimously approved by PPLD’s Board of Trustees during their public meeting on May 27 in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in El Paso County and beyond. New capacity limits will be enforced, and the number of patrons in each library will be monitored.
“We’re doing everything in our power not only to comply with public health recommendations, but to go beyond that, even, to ensure our patrons and staff can safely be in our public spaces during this ongoing pandemic,” Spears said. “We know our patrons miss browsing our shelves and using our computers, and we want to provide that while prioritizing the health and wellbeing of Library patrons, staff, and the community-at-large.”
Hours of operation will vary by location, and the first hour will be reserved for people who are at higher risk of serious complications from COVID-19. Curbside services will continue at all libraries, along with many ways to use the Library remotely.
More information on how patrons can use the Library’s limited indoor services during its phased reopening is available at ppld.org/COVID-19.
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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.