CLEVELAND — On Monday, several services resumed at Cleveland Public Library for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in March.
Here is what is back up and working:
- CURBSIDE SERVICE & WALK-UP SERVICE at Main Library, the Louis Stokes Wing and five branches: MLK, Memorial-Nottingham, Rice, Rockport, and South Brooklyn.
- ASK CPL: Phone lines are open at all locations. Patrons can speak live to a Library staffer or live chat on cpl.org.
- SUMMER PROGRAMMING: Virtual programs and services include a summer reading program, health workshops, legal and career assistance, crisis counseling and more. Register here.
- BOOK DROPS: Borrowed materials can be placed in our book drops located outside any Cleveland Public Library location. Patrons worried about fines due to COVID-19 should not be concerned. Cleveland Public Library is fine free.
- MAIL SERVICE: Ohio Library for the Blind and Physically Disabled (OLBPD) resumes mail circulation. Phone lines are open too.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to curbside/walk-up service at Cleveland Public Library:
STEP 1: Reserve items online at cpl.org or by phone with your Library card handy. Don’t know exactly what you want? Call the library and a representative will be happy to help.
STEP 2: Call ahead to schedule a time to pick up materials.
STEP 3: How do you plan to pick up your materials: Curbside or Walk-Up Service?
FOR CURBSIDE PICK-UP:
- Park your car in a designated spot
- Call the Library location to notify staff of your arrival
- Open your trunk or cargo area so materials can be placed inside
- Return to your car and be prepared to show your library card or state ID
FOR WALK-UP SERVICE:
- Call the Library upon arrival.
- Be prepared to show your Library card or photo ID.
- Your materials will be placed on a pick-up table.
STEP 4: Enjoy your materials! All items will be placed in plastic Library bags for your safety.
STEP 5: Don’t forget to return all items to the book drop.
“We’d like to thank our patrons for their patience during this unprecedented time. We miss you and can’t wait to see you back at Cleveland Public Library,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library.
When the Library does begin to welcome patrons in its locations, patrons will notice new social distancing guidelines and Library staff in personal protective equipment. Patrons should wear masks for their safety. Based on guidance from the state and health authorities, Cleveland Public Library adapted its procedures for cleaning and sanitizing its facilities and handling materials. Returned materials will now be placed under quarantine for 72 hours to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“COVID-19 might forever change the Library experience, but it will never destroy the spirit of discovery and learning at Cleveland Public Library. Whether you are virtual or curbside, we encourage you to experience all the People’s University has to offer,” adds Thomas, Jr.
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