CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Public Library has put forth a plan to begin limited service to the public amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The phased reopening plan will begin on Wednesday, May 27, when staff at the Ohio Library for the Blind and Physically Disabled (OLBPD), which is operated by Cleveland Public Library, will be available to answer phone calls from patrons. Mail circulation for OLBPD will also resume.
On Monday, June 1, phone lines will be back open at all Library locations. Library staff will be available to take calls about holds, reference questions, and general Library information. Patrons can sign up for virtual programming and services, as well as return borrowed materials to the book drops. Library hours will temporarily change until further notice.
- Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Friday 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Saturday & Sunday CLOSED
On Monday, June 8, curbside and walk-up service will begin at Main Library, the Louis Stokes Wing, and five neighborhood branches:
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch
- Memorial-Nottingham Branch
- Rice Branch
- Rockport Branch
- South Brooklyn Branch
All other Library branches remain closed with reference service available by phone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to curbside service at Cleveland Public Library:
STEP 1: Reserve items online at cpl.org or by phone with your Library card handy. Don’t know exactly what you want? Call us and we can help.
STEP 2: Call ahead to schedule a time to pick up materials.
STEP 3: How do you plan to pick up your materials: Curbside or Walk-Up Service?
FOR CURBSIDE PICK-UP:
- Park your car in a designated spot
- Call the Library location to notify staff of your arrival
- Open your trunk or cargo area so materials can be placed inside
- Return to your car and be prepared to show your library card or state ID
FOR WALK-UP SERVICE:
- Call the Library upon arrival.
- Be prepared to show your Library card or photo ID.
- Your materials will be placed on a pick-up table.
STEP 4: Enjoy your materials!
All items will be placed in plastic Library bags for your safety.
STEP 5: Don’t forget to return all items to the book drop.
Service at the drive-up window at Main Library will remain the same. The Eastman Reading Garden will be open with social distancing guidelines.
“We’d like to thank our patrons for their patience during this unprecedented time. We miss you and can’t wait to see you back at Cleveland Public Library,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library.
When the Library does begin to welcome patrons in its locations, patrons will notice new social distancing guidelines and Library staff in personal protective equipment. Patrons should wear masks for their safety. Based on guidance from the state and health authorities, Cleveland Public Library adapted its procedures for cleaning and sanitizing its facilities and handling materials. Returned materials will now be placed under quarantine for 72 hours to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“COVID-19 might forever change the Library experience, but it will never destroy the spirit of discovery and learning at Cleveland Public Library. Whether you are virtual or curbside, we encourage you to experience all the People’s University has to offer,” adds Thomas, Jr.
Cleveland Public Library is offering virtual programs and services including tutoring, career and legal assistance and health classes. This year’s summer reading program, Summer Lit League, kicks off on June 1 to help children strengthen their literacy skills. For program information and registration, visit here.
RELATED: Cleveland Public Library expanding virtual experience to include popular programming and services
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, just ASK CPL to live chat with a Librarian. Look for the “ASK CPL” chat bubble on the homepage, cpl.org.
RELATED: Cleveland Public Library to make 2,000 face shields for first responders using its 3D printers