Community Corner
After-Hours Self-Service Launches At Robert Crown Library Branch
During new extended hours, registered Evanston Public Library patrons can access the branch — whether or not there is a librarian on duty.
EVANSTON, IL — The Evanston Public Library will begin offering additional access to the Robert Crown Branch to registered patrons starting next month.
Through its new Library Express program, patrons will be able to visit the branch for two additional hours in the morning on Mondays through Thursdays and two additional hours in the evening on Fridays and weekends, library staff announced.
With a system called Open+, those who are signed up for Library Express will be able to scan their library cards, enter a code and use the library while library staff are not on duty but the rest of the Robert Crown Community Center is open and staffed.
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“Extending library hours helps us achieve our goal of more equitable access to our services and materials for residents who may work late or have other obligations that make it difficult to visit us during normal business hours,” said Timothy Longo, the library's access services manager, announcing the new policy. “We hope this will allow more people to take advantage of the library.”
Morning express hours run from 7 to 9 a.m. on Mondays through Thursday, days when the library is staffed from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Evening express hours run from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Fridays through Sunday, days when the library is only staffed until 6 p.m.
Patrons will need to vacate the library between regular and express hours to ensure that only those with the proper permissions are present in the space, according to library staff.
During extended hours, library patrons will be able to use the library computers, and automated check-0ut stations can be used to sign out materials.
Those interested in signing up for the program must visit the Robert Crown or Main Library branch during regular library hours, undergo a brief orientation and sign an agreement with the library.
The Library Express program is open to Evanston residents 16 or older with valid library cards.
Earlier: Evanston Public Library Introduces Expanded Hours At 2 Branches
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