April 2021
This past winter, Massachusetts embarked on a staged reopening plan. At the same time, the Reading Public Library has been working in cooperation with town departments on mandated state guidelines to restart our in-library services to the public in the safest way possible for our patrons and staff.
After our in-library services closure from late December to mid-February, we welcomed the public back into the building, and wow, did you return!
In March, we had:
- 905 browsing appointments
- 286 Study desk/space reservations
- 233 PC reservations
- 25,625 items checked out (82% of our March 2019 total).
Our hard-working library staff have continued to provide virtual programming, including 62 programs (2 with attendance of 100+) and 10 virtual school visits. We’re open 7 days a week for browsing, studying, computer use, notary, and other limited services by appointment. Walk-ins are welcome! We may be able to fit you in immediately, or we’ll find a convenient day and time for you right at the Greeter Desk.
New and Returning Services and Collections
Our Library of Things and Go and Grow Collections are available for borrowing. We have WiFi Hotspots and Chromebooks, as well as new items such as a backpack kit and portable CD player. Meeting rooms were one of our most popular services pre-COVID; until we fully reopen, the library now offers virtual meeting space for you or your non-profit organization. The virtual space is available for Reading non-profit and non-commercial organizations, groups, or individuals that serve the Reading community or are Reading residents.
Many of our museum passes are available for use and most are now paperless, book your passes today!
What’s Next?
We will expand browsing services as the town COVID cases decline and in keeping with orders from the Board of Health. This summer, we will begin to provide both streaming and in-person outdoor programming.
Don’t Miss!
Our Summer Reading Program: Tails and Tales will begin on June 21st.
Our online resources are robust, and we encourage all our library users to visit our “RPL @ Home Page,” where you will find downloadable books, streaming services, links to our virtual programming, and resources for all ages.
Our weekly newsletter includes program and service updates as well as links to register for upcoming events like storytimes, book groups, and more. Subscribe here.
Thank you for your continued support and patience as we transition our services and stay true to our commitment to provide free, equitable, and diverse opportunities for all to learn and create in a world so greatly impacted by this pandemic and worldwide health crisis.
Be safe,
Amy Lannon, Library Director
