Libraries Continue To Serve Communities

PRAIRIE GROVE — Patrons who are ready to go back to the library now have more options in Farmington, Prairie Grove and Lincoln.

Prairie Grove Public Library

Prairie Grove Public Library had been open to the public by appointment only for many months because of covid-19. Monday, the library opened its doors with a mask requirement still in place, according to Amanda Thulin, children’s librarian.

The library has masks available for those who do not have one and also has hand sanitizer for visitors inside the front door.

Hours for Prairie Grove are 10 a. m. to 5 p. m., Monday-Friday. The library will continue to offer curbside pickup for those who are uncomfortable coming into the building. Thulin said computer use will be by appointment.

Farmington Public Library

Farmington Pub l ic Library is open 11 a. m. to 5 p. m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, said Marie Ingersoll, children’s librarian. The library has set aside Wednesday as a “reset” day, and service is available by curbside pickup only on Wednesdays. Curbside service also is available other weekdays.

Ingersoll said patrons are required to wear a mask inside and are asked to only stay for a short visit, not come in and browse around the library. The children’s area, computers, study rooms and community room are still closed to the public because of covid-19 concerns.

If anyone is interested in children’s books, Ingersoll said library staff will bring out items for a patron.

Lincoln Public Library

Lincoln recently changed access to its library also. It had been open through appointment only, but now is partially open. A visitor can knock on the door and be allowed in without an appointment for about 20 minutes, according to library director Dianna Payne.

Patrons can still have curbside pickup and the library continues to provide copying and faxing services for its customers.

Payne said city officials are continuing to review covid-19 cases in the area, and a decision on when to completely open the doors to the public will be made based on that information.

‘Tails and Tales’ Summer Program

All libraries are planning to sponsor a summer reading program using the theme “Tails and Tales,” from the Colloborative Summer

Library Program, though the program may look a little different at each library.

Thulin said Prairie Grove is planning to have an in-person summer reading program. Some restrictions may apply but those decisions will be made closer to the date, she said, and will depend on any direction from the state about covid-19 concerns.

Farmington is going to have a hybird summer reading program, Ingersoll said. Some performances are already scheduled, and Ingersoll said the plan is to hold those outside. The reading program will be supplemented with hands-on activities and virtual activities.

Payne said Lincoln is planning to have an in-person summer reading program for children. If needed, she said the library can have some of its programs outdoors at Lincoln Square.

LYNN KUTTER ENTERPRISE-LEADER Bonnie Haegele of the Lincoln area looks for some books to check out on Friday at Lincoln Public Library. Lincoln’s library is partially open with a knock on the door.