Washoe County libraries are starting a phased reopening process. Book drops are back open, and some other services will be back next week.
"On June 15 we start offering our limited services," said Jeff Scott, Washoe County Library Director. "So that will start with our grab and go in Spanish Springs and Incline Village, and drive-up in the South Valleys and Northwest. And we'll see how that goes for two weeks, and then start opening up other libraries for grab and go service and when the state hits phase 4, we hope to open fully by mid July."
The library system has seen a big boost in its virtual selections over the last few months; thousands have signed up for library cards online.
"We have so many more library card sign-ups, we've seen a lot more usage with audio books and e-books," Scott said. "It's probably a 150% increase in our virtual services, so it's going great in that aspect."
When they start to open the doors again, staff will be wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), and returned materials will be quarantined.
"The South Valleys and Sparks branches will will have automated material handler, so if you return items there they will automatically be checked in and sorted, so it can be quarantined," Scott said. Materials returned to other libraries will have to sit for three days, we have a quarantine service we're providing, just to make sure we're not spreading it through library materials."
The library system is still fine-free, so don't worry about having to rush to get those books back right away.
"Our board will probably review the policy in July or August," Scott said. "The hope is that it might be fine-free permanently considering people are having hardships."
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