Your Kansas City Public Library Is Open

Press release from the Kansas City Public Library:

June 1, 2021

You can once again visit inside your Kansas City Public Library.

Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the Library to limit public access to its buildings to ensure the safety of our patrons and our staff. Although our physical doors were closed, we continued working to meet the needs of the Kansas City community by shifting to by-appointment services, launching more online programming, and reimagining the many ways we provide essential community resources. A little over a year later, we welcome everyone back inside the Library.

Our main priority continues to be the safety of staff and patrons. Masks continue to be required inside all Library spaces to protect those who may be immunocompromised, cannot yet receive vaccines, or lack equal access to vaccines. We’ve rearranged furniture and reconfigured spaces to ensure proper social distancing. In-person group meetings and programs are still paused. And we’re taking other steps to provide a safe and welcoming experience for you and others as you once again visit inside our buildings and make use of Library resources and services. We look forward to seeing you in person. Here are a few things to know about planning your visit:

VISITING YOUR LIBRARY:

• Masks required for patrons and staff in all Library spaces.

• Location Hours: Regular open hours resume at Library locations.

*Trails West Branch will be closed until June 14 for interior renovations.

• Browsing and Holds: Come inside to explore our shelves and pick up your holds.

• Returns: Borrowed books, DVDs, and CDs can be placed in outdoor drop boxes or indoor returns areas.

• Technology Services: Public computers are available without appointments. Patrons can use Library print, fax, and scan services. Free wireless internet is available inside and outside all locations. Internet to Go kits can be reserved and checked out.

• Library Spaces: Guests may sit, relax, and read in public areas. Furniture has been spaced out and barriers installed to provide proper social distancing.

• Kids Café will continue as a grab-and-go service at the Library’s Bluford, Southeast, Trails West, and Waldo locations. (View schedule on our calendar)

• Food and drink not permitted inside the Library.

• Feeling sick? Please don’t visit for now to help keep everyone healthy. We’ll see you once you’re well!

CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE | RESUMING LATER:

• Meeting and study rooms remain closed for now. Community Connection Rooms are available by appointment at select locations.
• Indoor in-person public events, activities, storytimes, and classes remain paused. Library programs continue to take place online or in outdoor spaces.
• Physical magazines will not be immediately available for in-person reading. New issues will arrive on shelves after July 1. Visit our Digital Branch for free access to many online news resources and apps.

CLEANING AND SAFETY:

• Hand sanitizer readily available in public areas.

• Protective plexiglas shields installed in service areas.

• Computer stations arranged for physical distancing. Keyboards and tables are cleaned regularly.

• Public areas have been organized for physical distancing. High-touch areas are regularly cleaned.

• Children’s areas and toys undergo thorough regular cleaning.

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