Alameda County Library Now Offers Limited Visiting Hours

Press release from Alameda County Library:

March 26, 2021

The Fremont Main and Dublin Libraries now provide limited visiting hours for in-person services, including browsing, printing, computer use, and study space. Members can continue to place library materials on hold for pickup by appointment. The Library plans to expand limited visiting hours to other AC Libraries in accordance with the Alameda County Public Health Reopening Plan.

“We know we cannot serve everyone online. That’s why we’re so happy to be able to provide in-person services once again. While our spaces and services may look a little different, we’re committed to providing our communities with the great service they know and love, while prioritizing the safety of all,” said Cindy Chadwick County Librarian.

During limited visiting hours, the following in-person services are available:

• Browse the collection
• Computer use for one-hour sessions
• Self-service scan, print, and fax
• Study rooms, where available, limited to one person or family unit by in-person appointment
• Tech-It-Out laptops are still available but must be returned to staff for sanitizing after use
• Wi-Fi access       

Visiting Guidelines:
All members must follow the Library’s health and safety rules based on Alameda County’s COVID-19 Reopening Guidance.

• Members three years and older are required to wear a properly fitting face covering  
• Members inside and outside the libraries must follow social distancing guidelines  
• Members are expected to follow the posted signage and verbal directions of staff  
• Members will be provided with hand sanitizer upon entry  
• Eating inside the library is not permitted at this time  
• Stay home if you are sick or have COVID-19 symptoms  

In addition to the visiting guidelines above, the Library’s also doing the following to protect the safety of members and staff:

• Limiting occupancy inside the library   
• Disinfecting high-touch surfaces regularly   
• Installing plexiglass at service desks  
• Placing social distancing markers and signs throughout the library  
• Providing hand sanitation stations throughout the library  
• Letting returned items sit for at least 24 hours before being circulated   
• Closing libraries midday for cleaning   

AC Library will continue to offer services online and by phone. Our new schedule with limited visiting hours for our Fremont Main and Dublin Libraries are posted to our location pages. For more information about limited visiting hours, please visit: aclibrary.org/welcome-back.

This press release was produced by Alameda County Library. The views expressed here are the author's own.