Crystal Lake Library To Reopen; Appointments Required

CRYTSAL LAKE, IL — The Crystal Lake Public Library will be reopening on Sept. 14 but will be limiting the number of patrons inside by requiring appointments for those wishing to browse books. Only 40 visitors will be allowed inside the library, 126 Paddock Avenue during 45-minute time slots, which will be available at the top of each hour between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday and between 3 and 7 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday, according to the Crystal Lake Public Library website.

Crystal Lake library staff will clean surfaces between each appointment times. If a patron is late for his or her appointment, they will still be expected to leave at the scheduled departure time, according to library officials.

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In addition, the library installed three new HEPA filters to increase air circulation throughout the library as a measure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

"Recent air quality studies showed several work and public portions of the Library were deficient in healthy air flow," according to information posted on the library's website. "The filters will serve as a temporary solution until previously planned improvements are made to the building’s aging HVAC system this winter."

Hand sanitizer and wipes will be available in public areas and footlockers will be placed around the library. Patrons will be asked to deposit materials they have touched but don’t intend to check out into the lockers, according to library officials.

Those visiting the library will be able to pick up hold materials, check out items, browse the shelves, obtain or renew library cards and use the copier or printer. Seating areas will be limited as well the number of computers available for use in the adult and youth services area. Staff will be on hand to answer any questions.

Library visitors must follow these additional safety guidelines if they wish to stop out:

• Face masks must be worn over the nose and mouth for anyone ages 2 years old and older. If you can’t wear a face mask, call the library and set up a curbside service appointment
• Visitors must maintain 6-foot social distancing
• Follow set traffic patterns
• Children must be accompanied by an adult

Those wishing to schedule a "grab & go appointment" can do online or by called 815-459-1687.