Cheshire Library Reopening For In-Person Visits

CHESHIRE, CT — The Cheshire Public Library will be expanding services to allow in-person visits beginning Wednesday, Sept. 16.

“Following Governor Lamont’s Reopening Guidelines for Libraries and recommendations from the Chesprocott Health District we have worked diligently to put protocols and procedures in place for the safety of visitors and staff,” officials wrote in a news release.

The library will be closed Sept. 15 to give staff time to prepare for the reopening. During this phase, the library will be open for in-person visits from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday with evening and Saturday hours added beginning Oct. 3.

“Patrons will be able to browse and select materials, pick up items on hold, receive help with reference and informational questions, and use our self-service copier and fax machines,” according to the news release. “Public computers will be available for use by appointment. Our Grab & Go and remote printing curbside service will continue as scheduled for those patrons who do not wish to enter the building at this time. In-person evening and Saturday visits will be announced once it is deemed feasible to do so.

“Entering and exiting the library will be done through the doors on the parking lot side of the building. The front doors will be for exiting only. In order to maintain proper social distancing, we are limiting our total building capacity as well as the number of visitors allowed in each of our service areas. Visitors may need to wait to enter the building or area if limits have been reached.”

Children under the age of 12 must stay with their caregiver at all times. Patrons over the age of 2 will be required to wear a mask covering the nose and mouth while in the building, according to officials.

“We can provide disposable masks to visitors who need one,” officials said. “Hand-sanitizer stations will be available throughout the building for patrons to use. Study rooms and tables, the children’s play area, teen study area, quiet reading room, soft seating and newspapers are not available at this time. Public restrooms and water fountains will be closed and food or drink may not be brought into the Library.

“All programming will remain virtual throughout the fall, so be sure to check our calendar of events on our website at www.cheshirelibrary.org to sign up for one of our many offerings.

“Staff have missed seeing and working with our residents in person and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone back into the Library. The many messages of support and concern we have received have touched us and encouraged us throughout this challenging time.”