Charlotte Mecklenburg Library System To Begin Reopening June 1

CHARLOTTE, NC — Charlotte Mecklenburg Library system is set to begin reopening services at area branches June 1, it announced Thursday.

The library is using a phased approach to resuming services. Phase 1, which begins Monday, will include limitations on customer access and a social distancing policy.

"The first phase of the re-opening is expected to last three to four weeks before we expand in our second phase," the library said. "At each branch location you’ll find limited services — holds pick-up and returns only. We allocated space inside the front entrance in each branch to serve one customer at a time, with a 6-foot distancing line outside. While customers are in line outside, staff will encourage social distancing and explain the available services," the library said.

Library staff will also be wearing masks and encouraging patrons to do the same.

Here are the new library policies that will be implemented June 1:

• Materials and holds available for pickup inside the branches
• One customer allowed inside a branch at a time
• Minimized footprint in locations, access is limited (no restrooms available)
• Customer time in location limited
• Staff interaction minimal and at a distance
• Staff will wear face masks or coverings, customers are encouraged to wear as well
• Programming available exclusively online at cmlibrary.org
• No overdue fines assessed
• Materials have 3-day quarantine before checked in, customers may notice this on their dashboard/account
• All material/book drops remain closed. Return materials and books to the designated receptacles located at branch locations only during open hours. Signs will direct customers to the proper bin where returned materials will begin the quarantine process.
• Resumption of regular summer hours Monday- Thursday (9 a.m. - 8 p.m.) and Friday -Saturday (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

More information about the library's Phase 1 reopening may be found here.