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COVID-19 Library Operations

Samuels Library is Open to the Public

Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in Warren County, we will begin offering modified hours and increased curbside service starting December 1st - find our new schedule below. We require that patrons maintain social distancing while browsing the shelves or waiting in line. In order to remain open and comply with Executive Order 63, patrons age 5 and older are required to wear a mask. If you need a mask, they are available at the front desk. Those who cannot or choose not to wear a cloth face covering may wear a face shield, or use the services listed here in our FAQs as an accomodation.

Library Hours

Monday - Thursday | 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday | 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Things to Know About Services

Meeting Rooms

Meeting rooms will remain closed with no reservations being taken until further notice. Study rooms are also unavailable for use.

Programs

All programs will continue to take place virtually. Most of these may be viewed on the library's Facebook page and YouTube channel, while others require registration and take place over Zoom. See our full event schedule for details.

Returning Materials

Our bookdrop is open 24/7. Returned items will be quarantined for 5 days prior to being checked in.

Fines & Fees

Overdue fines are waived for items due after March 16th, 2020.

Library Cards

If you do not have a library card, apply for one online today! It’s easy and provides access to the library’s digital materials.

Additional Precautions

  • Tutoring inside the library cannot be accommodated at this time.
  • Notary services have been suspended until further notice.
  • Interlibrary loans cannot be requested at this time.
  • All toys have been removed from the play area.
  • Computers are available, however usage is limited to one 2-hour session per day.
The health and safety of our patrons and staff is of utmost importance. We continue to assess COVID-19 information day by day - please stay tuned to our website for any additional updates. We would encourage everyone to stay home if possible and stay safe, following guidance from experts: wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, cover with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and stay home if you do not feel well.

Curbside Pickup

How does it work?

Patrons who place holds may need to wait up to 24 hours before their items are available for pickup - please wait for a hold notification, or check your account online to see if the items you requested have a status of "Arrived." Items can be picked up during the following times:

Monday - Thursday | 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.    |    3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday | 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.    |    3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

When you come to pick up your items, please park near the bookdrop area and call 540.635.3153 to let staff know you've arrived.

To protect our patrons, items will be sanitized and placed in a plastic bag prior to being brought out to you. In an effort to maintain social distancing, staff will wheel the items out on a cart to the edge of the sidewalk near your vehicle then step back to give you space to take the items off of the cart.

Staff member rolling out cart for curbside pickup

FAQs

If I cannot or choose not to wear a cloth face covering, can I still use the library?
Face shields may be worn as an alternative to a cloth face covering, or you may use the following accommodations for services:

Materials Checkout
Curbside service is available for the checkout of physical materials. We also encourage patrons to access ebooks, audiobooks, and other digital resources from our website. Extended curbside service will be considered for those with medical conditions.

Browsing
Our online catalog is available by clicking here to search for suitable library materials. Adult and Children’s Reference Staff are available by phone or via online chat to assist in materials selection and offer personalized recommendations.

Internet Access & Computer Use
The library’s wireless internet is accessible from the parking lot and outdoor seating areas. Laptops and wi-fi hotspots can be checked out for at-home use.

Printing & Copying
Curbside service is available for those with medical conditions who need to print or copy documents. Arrangements can be made by contacting the Adult Reference staff.