While libraries can reopen to the public starting Friday, local institutions are taking varying approaches to when that will happen.
Penetanguishene Public Library plans to welcome the public back Friday with modified hours and various protocols in place.
In Midland, however, a later date is on the table.
“The library is finalizing details for movement into Stage 3,” said Midland Public Library CEO Crystal Bergstrome.
“We are aiming for early August, and details regarding the protocols, procedures and various changes to accompany that will be shared as they are finalized.”
In neighbouring Penetanguishene, however, library staff spent time during its earlier closure to establish such protocols and procedures and, thereby, be ready to open to the public once allowed to by the province.
Under a modified schedule, the facility will now be open Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Wednesdays from 2 to 6 p.m.
"We're opening Friday and following all of the guidelines that have been put in place," said library CEO Linda Keenan, noting they'd been getting ready for this day while they've been closed. "We're doing a slow restart. It's just going to be different from the norm."
Keenan said they're also encouraging patrons to make appointments since only 10 people will be allowed in the library at a time.
"Usually, we can have up to 300 people in the library, not that we ever have that many unless it's a special event," she said, noting adding patrons will also be asked to use hand sanitizer and wear a mask while also placing any items they'd like to check out in a basket.
"They'll be greeted by a screener who will ask questions," said Keenan, who noted furniture has also been placed to allow for social distancing. "Our furniture is all wipeable. People can come in a sit for a limited time; 30 minutes per person per day.
As well, patrons can still drop off materials via the book-drop with curbside pickup also continuing for the foreseeable future.
"We're trying to accommodate people as much as possible," Keenan said, adding various library clubs will also be active.
Like Midland, Tay Township doesn't plan to open its doors Friday.
"I do not have a tentative opening date for you at this time, however, we have installed plexiglass sneeze barriers at our circulation desks," said Tay Township Public Library CEO Jody Bressette, adding protocols will be in place involving things like masks and personal protection equipment for when reopening occurs.
"The safety of our staff and patrons is our number one concern. Our library system has implemented a phased reopening approach that follows provincial guidelines and best practices in libraries around the world, ensuring the safety of our staff and patrons."
Both Tay and Midland are offering curbside pickup for patrons who reserve their materials online or by phone with its book drop also open at different times throughout the week.
"In addition to accessing our collections via curbside our patrons will soon be also able to access printing/copying/faxing services, and free program/activity kits, also via the curbside service.," Bressette said.
On its website, the Midland library outlines how things will be different upon reopening, including the suspension of programming, room bookings and other services.
It notes: “We may require/encourage patrons to: Explore our online resources, e-books and e-audiobooks, renew their currently checked-out items online or by phone, use our self-checkout options / scan their own library cards in-house, wear a face mask while in the library and consider making any payments at / to MPL by debit / credit rather than cash.”
