Ridgewood Library Begins Indoor Service: What You Should Know

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — The doors to the Ridgewood Public Library will be opened both literally and figuratively on Tuesday, as patrons may now reserve a spot to use the library's indoor resources.

Library patrons can reserve a 45-minute appointment to browse library materials and use computers through the library website. Appointments begin on Tuesday at 9 a.m., but are available to book now.

Reservations are required for library visits, which are limited to browsing and computer use, according to the library website.

Face masks must be worn while in the library.

Libraries were allowed to reopen as of July 2 at 25 percent capacity in New Jersey, and some in the area opened after July 4.

The New Jersey Library Association released a statement in June stating that libraries in the state should open only when they feel they are ready to do so.

"The NJLA Executive Board supports libraries in establishing their own timetables for reopening. There are many considerations and tasks for each individual library to discuss and implement before safely reopening including bringing back furloughed staff, finding and funding PPE, and creating safe and effective service plans," the statement read.

"Most libraries will not be ready to open on July 2nd. When libraries do open, services available will vary greatly. We stress that all libraries keep the safety of their staff and the public in mind when moving forward and applaud the work of taking on these unprecedented challenges with utmost care for the souls that provide and use our services."

Here's how indoor visits will work in Ridgewood:

• Appointments are available in 45-minute windows from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday
• On Friday through Sunday the last reservation slot is 4 p.m.
• Though most sessions are 45 minutes, children sessions are 30 minutes
• A maximum of 30 people — not including staff — are allowed in the library at one time
• The building will be cleared at the end of each session to allow for cleaning
• Children under 12 must be joined by an adult, who remains with them during their visit
• A minimum of 6-feet of distance should be maintained
• Safety shields will be placed at services desks
• Sanitization of hands will be done upon entry, and as needed during a visit

Here's what you can do:

• Pick up holds at the doorside tent
• Return items at outdoor book drop, which allows for the quarantine of items
• Browse materials on the first floor, mezzanine and reference level
• Check out materials at a service desk
• Get a book recommendation or ask a reference question
• Print and make copies

Here's what isn't allowed, at least yet:

• In-house events or programs
• In-house reading, studying or tutoring
• Indoor art exhibits
• Interlibrary loans
• Meetings or study groups