Computer Use, Browsing Reopening At Heights Libraries

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — Computer use and browsing will be expanded in September at the Heights Libraries.

“We are so happy to welcome customers back, and we have worked very hard to do so safely,” said Heights Libraries Director Nancy Levin. “Services look very different now. While we can’t yet welcome the community to spend time in our buildings, we still offer free access to computers, books, music, and DVDs, and all kinds of information is available on our website and through our reference staff.”

Expanded computer use will begin Sept. 15. Browsing at branches will expand Sept. 22.

Due to precautions implemented for COVID-19, computer use and browsing will look different than pre-pandemic. Computer use will require a reservation and reservations must be made over the phone. Walk-up and online reservations are not available at this time, the library system said.

Computer use is limited to one session per day and sessions will last for 45 minutes. Reservations can be made over the phone with any Heights Libraries branch.

Browsing will be allowed in all sections of the libraries, but customers will be asked to stay only as long as they need to get their materials. The number of customers in each building will be limited to ensure social distancing.

Chairs and tables will also be removed from buildings to prevent customers from lingering inside. Study and meeting rooms will remain closed until further notice, as will the children's play area.

If a building gets too crowded, staff are authorized to move customers along so other people may enter the building.

Reference staff will be available at the reference desks, but will help customers from behind Plexiglas barriers.

All customers are required to wear facemasks at all times and keep six feet of distance from staff and other customers. Facemasks must cover both the nose and mouth and faceshields are not an acceptable replacement for facemasks, the libraries said.