7 things to know about curbside pickup, returns at Newmarket Public Library

Members must first place material on hold; no fines for late returns

Newmarkettoday.ca
June 3, 2020

Curbside pickup at the Newmarket Public Library begins on Saturday, June 6 and is offered two days a week, Saturdays and Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A small number of library staff will be at the library to process orders that members have placed on hold. Items are checked out by staff prior to curbside pickup days.

Curbside pickup is only for items already placed on hold. To avoid disappointment, the library is asking people to not line up and request items at the door.

The library and in-person library programs remain closed to the public as Ontario this week extended its COVID-19 state of emergency at least through to June 30.

Library officials say measures are in place to ensure that the curbside pickup service can be launched while respecting all public health guidelines for community and staff safety during the coronavirus crisis.

Here are seven things you need to know about using the service:

• Go to www.newmarketpl.ca, select an item from the library’s catalogue and place it on hold.
• If you need assistance related to curbside pickup, or don’t have specific items in mind, contact the library and leave a message at 905-953-5110, text 905-769-0433 or e-mail npl@newmarketpl.ca. On pickup service days, staff will be at the library to answer calls in person.
• After placing a hold, you will receive an email or phone call letting you know that your items are ready for pickup. 
• Visit the library on curbside pickup service days, line up where indicated to maintain social distancing of two metres (six feet), and wait to be called to the door.
• When it’s your turn, present your library card and staff will retrieve your items and leave them for you at a safe distance.
• Due dates have been extended and there are no fines for late returns during the library’s closure.
• You can return items using the library’s outside book return, where they will remain for a 72-hour quarantine period before being reshelved.

While the library remains closed its Online Library provides access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, online courses, streaming music and movies, and more.

During the crisis, the library has also been offering online programs via Zoom.

Upcoming programs can be found in the programs and activities calendar here.

The library’s curbside pickup service is subject to change depending on government health directives during the current crisis.

The Newmarket Public Library is at 438 Park Ave., in Newmarket.