Library adds browsing appointment slots

Also now open Tuesday evenings

Forbush Memorial library also adds Tuesday evening hours.

» The Forbush Memorial Library has turned a corner on the pandemic and issued new changes to the library’s operations, according to an announcement from the library.

At its March meeting, the library’s Board of Trustees authorized changes to the current state of operations at the library due to COVID-19 restrictions, according to the announcement.

Effectively immediately, 30 additional browse-by-appoint

ment time slots have been added to the current 15, increasing time slots to 45 throughout the week. Note that multiple patrons can sign up for individual time slots.

Tuesday evening hours have been added with the library open until 8 p.m. on Tuesdays.

The policy established in June regarding Children’s Visitation to the library has been rescinded effective April 6 with respect to guidance from the state of Massachusetts and in line with Westminster school openings.

As of April 6, all patrons are welcome into the library at set browse-by-appointment times. Small groups (of 10 or fewer) will once again be allowed to hold meetings in the Eloranta Room.

And the trustees are looking forward to relaxing more of the COVID protocols as staff is fully vaccinated and statewide restrictions are lifted.

If planning to come in the library to browse by appointment, patrons should call the Library at 978- 874-7416 to schedule the 30-minute appointment. Patrons can browse books on the main and upper floors and in the Children’s Room. There will be opportunities for limited computer use as well as use of the copier. Guidelines:

Patrons are required to wear masks at all times and are asked to use hand sanitizer upon entering.

Do not visit the library if you are sick. Be considerate of others.

Enter the library at the rear entrance by the parking lot. You may exit through the front or rear doors.

Gloves and hand sanitizer are available throughout the library for patron use and observance of social distancing is expected.

Elevator use will be limited to one person or family on the elevator at a time.

Stairs will be single file with everyone keeping to their right.

Plexiglass has been installed at each of the service desks to allow for contact-free checkout and patron interactions to ensure safety for everyone.

All public upholstered furnishings and seating areas/workspaces are unavailable at this time. Some areas of the library are closed and toys and play apparatus are not accessible.

Staff will disinfect hightouch areas throughout the day and each vacated area left by a patron will be wiped down before the next person arrives.

The library has had great success with its curbside pickup and books on wheels delivery options. Both of those services will continue to operate.

The library looks forward to continuing to serve its patrons and appreciates continued patience, grace and flexibility. The health and safety of patrons have been staff ’s No. 1 concern.

All returned materials are quarantined for seven days before being handled, checked in and made available for circulation. The staff will continue to handle all materials while wearing facial coverings and having sanitized hands or gloves.

The library now has a sanitizing mister that is used daily and air filters have been upgraded to the highest standard available for the building’s units.

Also, the library is cleaned daily with hightouch surfaces cleaned multiple times throughout the day.

For any questions about these new relaxed policies, call Library Director Nick Langhart at 978- 874-7416.