Bernardsville Public Library : SPRING INTO THE LIBRARY For A Diverse Array Of In-Person And Virtual Services

Press release from the Bernardsville Public Library:

April 6, 2021

Throughout the pandemic the Bernardsville Library has continued to offer a high level of services to the  community. From providing an extensive catalog of downloadable digital materials, to interactive virtual programs for adults, teens, and children, Grab-and-Go services, and safe onsite, in-person assistance, the library has responded to patrons’ needs while upholding the state-mandated safety requirements.

We recognize how difficult it is to keep track of basic information in the ever-shifting landscape in which we now exist. For this reason, we are providing this brief guide to our current services.

Daily Library Hours

Since re-opening our doors in July of 2020, we have adjusted our hours several times in an effort to balance community needs, capacity and distancing restrictions, staffing capabilities and budget levels. As of April 1, the library operating hours are :

Monday– Wednesday:      10:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday:                                      1:00-5:00 pm
Friday:                                  10:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday:                             10:00 am-2:00 pm
Sunday:                                         1:00-5:00 pm

Full Range of Library Services
During operating hours, patrons are welcome to browse the stacks, use the public computers, and work and study in the limited seating that is provided. The library is adhering to all state mandated capacity and social distancing requirements. As always, staff are available to assist patrons. For safety, patrons under the age of 15 years must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.

Robust Shop-from-Home Experience
Since we have joined the MAIN library consortium, we now offer a robust “shop-from-home” experience. From the catalog on our website at www.bernardsvillelibrary.org, patrons can browse the collections of the 49 member libraries, make their selections, and have the items sent to Bernardsville, or any other MAIN library, for pickup. A patron may choose a book on bread baking from Madison, a best-selling novel from Roxbury and a children’s book on space exploration from Hunterdon county. Within days, the items will be available at our Grab-and-Go desk (or any specified MAIN library. Items, including those from Bernardsville, may be returned to any MAIN library.

Safe and Convenient Grab-and-Go Service
The Grab-and-Go desk in the lobby is a safe and convenient option for those who wish to access physical materials, but want to limit the time they spend in the library. Items can be placed on hold remotely and picked up at the Grab-and-Go desk.

Varied Virtual Library Program
The majority of our programs for youth and adults will remain virtual through June with the exception of a small number of in-person, outdoor programs. We hope to expand our outdoor programs during the summer.

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