BRODHEAD — Brodhead Memorial Public Library reopened to the public on July 1 offering Library Express services. Library Express allows patrons to pick up holds in-person and return items during the library’s staffed hours. Patrons can also apply for library cards, request book packs, and collect grab-and-go activity packs and crafts. Curbside pickup, which has been offered since late April will continue by appointment.
When a patron receives notice that an item is available at the library, they can visit during open hours and grab their items. Library hours will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The library will be closed from 1-2 p.m. to allow staff to sanitize high-touch items. Patrons who prefer to continue using curbside pickup can call the library at 608-897-4070 any time during open hours and schedule an appointment to pick up their materials. Curbside pickup will also be offered on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Staff will no longer contact patrons to schedule appointments.
The community is also invited to participate in the library’s virtual Summer Reading Program, which runs through Aug. 1. Those interested can register at https://brodheadlibrary.beanstack.org and track time and activities on the website or by downloading the Beanstack Tracker App to their smart phone or device. The Friends of Brodhead Memorial Public Library, Kwik Trip and individuals have donated a number of prizes, including Brodhead Bucks, gift cards, games, and more.
The library will also offer grab-and-go activity kits starting the week of July 6. Activities and supplies will be available to pick up during open hours and staff will host programs using Facebook Live or Zoom. Upcoming programs include story times; crafts for all ages, and two programs from the Mississippi River National Museum in Dubuque, Iowa. Patrons can also request book packs, which include five books from the same subject, genre, or author by calling the library. More information on upcoming virtual programs is available on the library’s website, www.brodheadlibrary.org, and Facebook page.
Library staff are working hard to keep you safe when visiting. All library staff will wear masks when interacting with patrons, hand sanitizer is available, and there are dedicated entrance and exit doors and social distancing signs. The Library Board of Trustees strongly encourages visitors to wear masks and also asks that only one visitor from each household enter the building, when possible. Patrons needing a mask can request one from library staff.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the library is unable to offer a number of services at this time, including in-person events, meeting rooms and access to patron computers. Restrooms and drinking fountains will also be closed. Our 5th Street entrance will also remain closed, so all visitor should use the parking lot entrance.
The pandemic has also forced changes in how materials are handled. All materials returned or delivered to the library are quarantined for 72 hours prior to staff handling them. Because of this, patrons may notice a delay in availability of items and items being checked in.
For questions, contact the library at 608-897-4070.