Newmarket library to reopen with limited services July 28

Patrons can access public computer workstations as restrictions lift

Newmarkettoday.ca
July 16, 2020
Kim Champion

The Newmarket Public Library is set to reopen on Tuesday, July 28 and will offer members a limited number of services, including access to its public computer workstations.

In a July 15 email update, CEO Todd Kyle said the library’s limited reopening is in keeping with the gradual re-starting of businesses and services in Ontario during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“When York Region is permitted to move into stage 3 of the province’s reopening plan, and if the measures currently being taken are successful as it relates to user and staff safety, the library will gradually expand services, such as retrieving material from the shelves for patrons to browse and borrow on the spot,” Kyle said.

Newmarket and the rest of York Region this week were not given the nod to move into the third and final stage of reopening the economy, which begins July 17 in other jurisdictions such as Simcoe Muskoka.

York Region will remain in stage 2 until at least July 24 as the Ontario government has said it will re-evaluate the public health districts held back every Monday.

In addition to computer use for a one-hour maximum time frame, members can pick up and check out items on hold, renew or apply for a library card, and return materials using the outside drop-off slots only.

At present, browsing the shelves or use of study or lounge furniture will not be permitted.

To keep library users and staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, a face covering or mask is required to enter the building, physical distancing rules of keeping six feet away from others must be followed, and patrons must sanitize their hands before entering.

Also note that due to a limited number of people allowed inside the library at a given time, patrons may have to wait outside in a physically distanced line.

Items placed on hold for curbside pickup will still be available. However, users will be required to enter the library to retrieve items.

If you have items on loan, the library will continue to charge no overdue fines, but you are encouraged to return items by the due date. The library will soon begin to charge for the replacement of items long overdue.

The temporary hours are Tuesday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, email npl@newmarketpl.ca, text at 905-769-0433, or call 905-953-5110.