Beginning Tuesday, March 22, all 20 branches of the St. Louis County Library (SLCL) will reopen – but you’ll need an appointment to get in.
Patrons can sign up for in-person library visits online, or by calling (314) 994-3300. Each visit is limited to 45 minutes per appointment, and anyone 5 years of age and older will be required to wear a mask to enter. Free masks will be available at the door for those who need it. Additional COVID-19 safety measures, including social distancing, will be observed.
Library staff and managers provided valuable input for the phased reopening, according to SLCL director Kristen Sorth.
“Based on their feedback, policies and procedures were refined in order to safely open our buildings in a way that worked for patrons and employees,” Sorth said.
Appointments at each branch are available at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 noon, Monday to Saturday. Appointments begin at the top of the hour and end at the 45-minute mark. Spaces will be cleaned in-between time slots. Each appointment includes access to one computer, if needed, and admits up to two adults plus children.
In addition, the library’s curbside service will still be available, allowing a contact-free way for cardholders to reserve and pick up books and movies at all locations. Curbside hours are: 1 to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and 1 to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
This past year, SLCL has had to modify – and at times, reimagine – its services to comply with COVID-19 safety guidelines
“The St. Louis County Library continued to assist patrons in a variety of ways over the last year by delivering books, technology, printouts, meals, diapers and a variety of other items via curbside and by offering engaging virtual programs,” Sorth said. “But we know that for many patrons, the inside of our buildings provide vital access to technology, as well as a broader access to our collections. Patrons really missed the feeling you get when you walk into a library and we missed seeing them experience that magic. We are thrilled to welcome them back inside.”
For details and more information about SLCL services, including drive-thru meals and distribution of other emergency essentials, visit the St. Louis County Library’s website.
