Hamilton libraries to begin offering curbside pickup of on-hold items

Hungry for something to read, watch orlisten to? The Hamilton Public Library (HPL) will soon be serving up takeout at four of its branches.

Libraries across the city were shut down to slowthe spread of COVID-19, but now they're beginning to open up again, starting with curbside pickup of on-hold books, music and movies as of June 23.

"The take-out service provides customers new materials while putting in place safety precautions to slowly reopen,"explained chief librarian Paul Takala in a media release.

"It's vital to keep reading, watching and learning, while maintaining our community's health and safety. We are in this together."

Library users will be able to pick up any holds placed before March 14 and during pandemic shutdown and add new holds too.

Central Library, Red Hill, Terryberry and Dundas branches will all offer pick-up appointments, which can be scheduled from 11:30 a.m.to6:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday or 11:30 a.m.to4:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Step-by-step instructions on how-to pick up holds are available on the HPL's website.

Pick-up appointments can be booked online or by calling 905-546-3200 starting June 15. Visitors will have to maintain physical distancing and staff will not accept returned items. Instead, users are asked to return items by placing them in library drop boxes.

The library says those returns will be held for 72 hours to ensure the safety of staff and customers and workers will be wearing personal protective equipment when handling materials. Hand sanitizer will also be available at the four take-out locations.

Wi-Fi available outsideall branches

The Ancaster, Kenilworth, Saltfleet, Sherwood, Turner Park and Waterdown branches will all be involved in the next stage of reopening, says the library. Wi-Fi remains available outside of all branches in the meantime.

"All locations will eventually be open for this service when enhanced cleaning and other safety protocols that are in place," reads the release, noting the safety of staff and residentsis the library's top priority.

"In the coming weeks, we will provide additional information about our phased reopening plan and will continue to work with the City of Hamilton and Public Health."

A library card and personal identification number are needed to pick up items. The library notes users can also arrange to pick up on-hold items for two family members or friends during their appointment.

"While we know many residents have utilized our enhanced online services and collections, we understand Hamilton residents miss their library and we thank you for your patience," said Takala.