April 5 Reopening Date For Howard County Library Branches

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Starting April 5, all Howard County Library System branches will open for limited in-person services including browsing, computer access, printing, photocopying, scanning and faxing. Passport services will resume at the East Columbia Branch. Contactless pickup and bundle bags will continue to be available at all branches. Individuals are able to sign up for 45-minute appointments to enter the library branches.

“Our team is grateful for the patience, support and enthusiasm of our customers. While a return to our branches will not be a return to a pre-pandemic environment, our Phase 4 reopening plan prioritizes access to critical services our customers rely on for academic achievement, access to technology and workforce development,” HCLS President and CEO Tonya Aikens said in a statement. “As we have since last March, we will continue to follow guidance from public health experts to prioritize the health and safety of all who walk through our doors.”

HCLS closed its branches March 16 in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The library began offering remote services, teaching virtual classes and offering more ebooks and eaudiobooks.

“Our top-ranked library system is a treasure for our community, providing free access to unlimited knowledge and allowing all our residents the opportunity to read, learn and grow,” Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said in a statement. “This a great step of progress for our library system, and we know there are many residents who will be thrilled to safely browse and spend time among the stacks. Every day we’re getting closer to normal, but we have to keep working together, let’s continue to StayCOVIDSafe HoCo.”

Starting April 5, customers can make 45-minute appointments to:

• Access public computers
• Browse the shelves
• Check out their own items using self-checkout machines or HCLS’ new Meescan app
• Print, copy, scan and fax
• Ask staff for in-person assistance finding materials or other resources
• Apply for passports (East Columbia Branch only)

Services that will continue to be available:

• Contactless pickup
• Bundle bags
• Downloadable ebooks and audiobooks
• eContent to stream, download and learn
• On-demand classes and tutorials
• Virtual classes and events
• Sign up for a library card
• Ask staff for assistance by phone, email or web

Appropriate face masks, covering the mouth and nose are required for everyone ages two and up, including those who are vaccinated.