The Library staff is excited to welcome patrons into the building once again, even if only in limited capacity and for a maximum of one hour a day. There are many improvements to provide patrons with a safe and enjoyable visit. The air ducts have been cleaned and sanitized and a bipolar ionization air filtration system has been installed to reduce bacteria in the air. Sneeze shields have been installed at all public service desks to protect patrons and staff and hand-sanitizing stations are placed throughout the building.
Patrons who wish to have a contactless transaction will have a couple of new options. Mobile Check-out using the cloudLibrary app will allow patrons to check out their own library materials directly on their personal devices and bypass the circulation desk. Instructions for using the app can be found on the Library website. A new Bibliotheca self-check machine will also be available soon. Located at the far end of the circulation desk, patrons will scan their Library cards and can check out multiple items at one time using RFID technology. At this time, the self-check-out machine will only be used for books. Audio-visual materials will have to be checked out at the circulation desk.
Curbside pickup will continue as an option for the foreseeable future for those who want to minimize their time in the Library. Simply place a hold on the desired titles either online through the Library catalog or by calling the adult or youth services reference desks (908-273-0350, option 3 for adult or option 4 for youth). After you receive notification that your items are ready for pickup, schedule your pickup from the link in the message or follow instructions on the website.
For patrons who have a balance on their account, fees will now be able to be paid using a credit or debit card both at the circulation desk and soon on the self-check machine.
Library programming will continue to be offered virtually at this time with a few select programs being offered outdoors including concerts on the Village Green and a story walk event on the Library lawn during National Library Week April 5th – 10th. The Friends of the Library will continue to offer their fabulous jewelry sale from the display cases located in the Library. Watch for details about these exciting events.
This year’s most appropriate theme for National Library Week is “Welcome to Your Library” and we are delighted to welcome you back at this time. We hope to see you at the Library soon.
Susan Permahos, Director
Summit Free Public Library