Algonquin Area Public Library: Hours And Services Expand June 1!

Press release from the Algonquin Area Public Library:

May 12, 2021

Starting June 1, the Library will be expanding our daily hours and bringing back more of our popular services. Our drive-thru and curbside services will continue to be available.

Masks are required for all visitors to the Library.

Harnish Main Library
Monday–Thursday • 9 am–9 pm
Friday & Saturday • 9 am–5 pm
Sunday • noon–5 pm

Eastgate Branch 
Monday–Thursday • 10 am–8 pm
Friday & Saturday • 9 am–5 pm
Sunday • noon–5 pm

What services are available?

• Notary services
• Voter registration
• Fax services
• Test proctoring
• Computer access – two hour limit with print and copy services
• Study rooms - one hour limit, one person per room
• Tables and chairs - two hour limit
• Outdoor in-person programming
• Browsing of all collections
• Checkouts at self-checks and circulation
• Continuation of drive-thru service at Main and curbside service at Eastgate

What are the guidelines to keep me safe?

• All visitors ages 2 and up must wear masks
• Use hand sanitizer upon arrival
• Practice social distancing
• Follow directional signage in the library
• Plastic barriers are at all service desks
• Frequently-touched surfaces will be sanitized

Virtual AND In-person Outdoor Programs!

We'll continue our virtual programming via Zoom and YouTube, but will be adding in-person outdoor programming throughout the summer. Watch for alerts in our print and e-newsletters, and our online calendar. Whether it's a youth storytime, family movie night, craft instructions, webinars, or interactive yoga, you can find something perfect for you!

Click here to see our online calendar

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect walking into the Library?

You can expect to be welcomed by a greeter at the door to ensure that you're wearing a mask over your mouth and nose to ensure the safety of everyone in the Library. Hand sanitizer is available at sanitizer dispensers throughout the building.

Is there a limit to the number of visitors in the Library at one time?

To help maintain social distancing, we are limiting 150 visitors at the Main Library and 30 visitors at the Eastgate Branch at one time.

Do I have to limit my time in the Library?

If you are using our public computers, tables and chairs, please limit your stay to two hours so we can serve as many community members as possible, while maintaining indoor social distance per public health guidelines. 

Will contactless services still be available?

Yes! Our drive-thru service at Harnish Main and curbside service at Eastgate Branch will continue. You can pick up any materials you have requested, including take-n-make crafts and kits. Please call ahead to make sure your items are waiting for you at the drive-thru or curbside. If you prefer to come inside but want to maintain social distancing, you are able to use our self-checks for checking out your own items.

Can I browse for my own materials?

Yes! You are welcome to walk through the stacks to find items of interest to you. Can’t find what you’re looking for or need a suggestion? Staff are available for Reader’s Advisory assistance at the public service desks. Please observe floor markings to maintain a safe distance from others who may be in line for staff assistance.

Can I use a computer?

Yes! Our public desktop computers are available by reservation for AAPLD cardholders or on a first-come, first-serve basis. Use is limited to 2 hours per day. Staff are unable to provide 1-on-1 support at this time.

Can I book a study room?

Yes! AAPLD cardholders can reserve a study room in advance, up to one week prior, with no more than two advance bookings per week. Walk-in requests, including out-of-district cardholders, will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis. Bookings will be limited to one hour, one person per room.

Public meeting rooms are not available at this time.

What is not available at the Library right now?

• Public meeting rooms
• Space for gathering or hanging out
• Food or beverages in the library
• In-person indoor programming
• Access to the Play Area or Quiet Reading Room
• Assistance that requires close contact without suitable barriers

This press release was produced by the Algonquin Area Public Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.