Vancouver Public Library to open four branches mid-July
Posted July 3, 2020 5:57 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — After nearly four months of closure, checking out a Vancouver Public Library branch will soon be a possibility since four locations will be reopening later this month.
This is the beginning of a gradual reopening for VPL locations that will continue into September, and includes some take-out services at other locations.
Starting July 14, the Central Library, Britannia, Kitsilano, Renfrew, and South Hill branches will have limited in-person services from Tuesday to Saturday.
COVID-19 health and safety measures will be in place, and visitors will only be able to pick up existing holds, access physical collections in brief visits, return materials, and schedule a time for computer use.
“The temporary closure of libraries due to COVID-19 was a loss for our patrons, who rely on libraries for access to information, or to support the learning and entertainment needs of their families,” says Jennifer Chan, VPL board chair. “The health and safety of the public and library staff is paramount for the Board, and I am grateful that the collective efforts of our community in fighting COVID-19 have allowed us to safely reopen. Our dedicated library staff are eager to return to helping the public.”
There will also be appointment-only takeout service for library materials at the Champlain Heights, Dunbar, Firehall, Hastings, and Kensington branches from Tuesday to Saturday.
On those same days, book returns will be available starting July 7 at takeout and reopened locations, but staff stress there isn’t any rush since the process of quarantining and re-shelving materials takes time.
All due dates have been extended to September and fines have been suspended too.
“We want to thank everyone for their support and patience as we gradually reopen,” says Christina de Castell, chief librarian. “Reopening a large library system like VPL is a complex undertaking, and we are ensuring that as we begin to welcome everyone back to the library, we provide the services people need with appropriate health and safety measures.”
