Crystal Lake Library To Close For 10 Weeks

Press release from Crystal Lake Public Library:

December 2, 2020

The Crystal Lake Public Library will shift to offering all-virtual services starting Dec. 13 as repairs and renovation work expand to the interior portion of the building.

The Library is in the midst of imple­menting a repairs project that began in October. As part of the proj­ect, the building’s aged HVAC system will be partially replaced in order to provide improved air circulation and safer conditions for patrons and staff during COVID-19 times. A drive-up materials return drop and drive-up service window will be added to the east side of the building, two ameni­ties that have long been requested by the community. An automated materials handling system will be installed, which will shorten the amount of time returned materials are listed on a patron’s account.

Additional repairs/renovations will include fixing leaking portions of the roof and windows, improving the interior and exterior lighting of the building, reconfiguring public and staff spaces to meet social distancing requirements for COVID-19 and adding new self-checkout stations.

Since the State of Illinois has implemented stricter guidelines due to the rise of COVID-19 cases in the community, the Library is taking advantage of this time to close the building Dec. 13 and proceed with the improvements. Closing the building and having staff work remotely will enable contractors to finish the work in a much shorter time period.

“We are fortunate that we’ve al­ready implemented a robust virtual Library system so we can continue to serve our community,” Library Director Kathryn I. Martens said. “Luckily, we had saved the money and planned for these improvements and since there are so many closings, we can take advantage of this time to make the repairs and renovations.”

Once all repairs are completed, the Crystal Lake community will see that the Library Board and staff put consid­erable effort and emphasis on making the building safe during COVID condi­tions, Martens said.

Curbside Service Ends December 12

Because the building will be closed for approximately two months, curb­side service will be suspended as of Dec. 13. Patrons are encouraged to stock up on materials to use over the coming months. The last day for the curbside pickup service will be Saturday, Dec. 12.

Patrons can hold onto the materials until the Library reopens, and all due dates will be extended. City of Crystal Lake residents are permitted to check out a maximum of 300 items (yes, 300 items).

Patrons may go to neighboring libraries to get physical materials while the building is closed for the Repairs 2020 project. Public libraries in Illinois have a reciprocal bor­rowing agreement, which means residents can use their valid Crystal Lake Public Library card at any other public library in the state. Due to ongoing changes and restrictions due to COVID-19, it’s best to call ahead to confirm any specific library’s current hours and services available.

This press release was produced by Crystal Lake Public Library. The views expressed here are the author's own.