Long Beach Library says the stacks are back

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The Long Beach Public Library is set to reopen this Saturday with special events - book giveaways bags and information on its new take-out program.

The library has been closed since the coronavirus took hold in March, but since has enhanced its online presence to serve patrons through the quarantine. The library will open with social distancing restrictions.

Tara Lannen-Stanton, the library’s director, said that patrons will have the option to call the branch or fill out a form to request items they would like to borrow. She added that the event on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in all three branches. At Saturday’s event, staff will also unveil a new logo and introduce its new rebranding effort to the community, which will include a new website.

Lannen-Stanton said Saturday “is really about saying hi to people and getting to see people we haven’t in months.”

Sam Pinto, vice president of the Library’s Board of Trustees, said that the library staff is looking forward to reopening and added that the team has worked hard to make it a safe and efficient process.

“The library is Long Beach’s hub for literacy, arts and culture,” Pinto said. “While our virtual programs have been a great success, we are excited to resume in-person services. As the library transitions into its new normal, the trustees and director are proud to be able to do it with a zero percent tax increase.”

Lannen-Stanton said the staff will operate at 50 percent capacity and will incorporate social distancing and will require masks. The library will also still have many of its virtual programs, but will slowly begin to incorporate more in-person services.

“It feels pretty good,” Lannen-Stanton said about reopening the library. “It’s a little nerve-racking, but we’re taking all sorts of precautions.”

Lannen-Stanton added that the staff is aware that many patrons need the library’s computers and therefore will allow patrons to email or upload documents to be printed and picked up. She added that there is no timeline on when patrons can go back to safely using the computers.

Starting Monday, June 22, the main branch will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, except for Wednesday which will be open from 2-8 p.m. The Point Lookout and West End branches, starting June 24, will be open on Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The main branch lobby will be open for patrons, while Point Lookout patrons will be served at a takeout window. West End patrons will be served at the entrance. Also, returns will be taken by book drop only at Main, Point Lookout and Maryland Avenue. All returned materials will be quarantined for 72 hours.

Lannen- Stanton said that the last three months have been challenging, but she has seen a lot of growth and team-building with her staff. “Coming back together has been really great, she said. “We’ve learned new skills like how to use Zoom. There’s a feeling of excitement and a sense of anticipation.”