Centre County libraries resume limited in-person services. Here’s what to know about the changes
After being closed for months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centre County Library and Historical Museum opened its doors Monday to community members.
The library branches — located in Bellefonte, Centre Hall and Philipsburg — have reopened, but due to coronavirus mitigation efforts, residents must adhere to mandatory health guidelines to access in-person services. All facilities have been equipped with plexiglass guards, and furniture has been moved to accommodate social distancing. Increased cleaning procedures have been put in place to mitigate the spread of germs.
Universal masking will be enforced, according to the library’s reopening plan. Disposable masks will be made available to anyone entering a branch without a face covering; customers with medical exemptions may request staff assistance. Visits must be limited to 45 minutes or less, and restrictions may be put in place to limit the number of patrons inside a branch at a time.
Computer access is available by appointment only and can be made by phone. Toys, games, newspapers and magazines have temporarily been removed from all branches.
Though late fees and fines will not be charged, community members may return items in exterior book return slots. Returns will be quarantined for 72 hours before being put back on shelves.
No returns will be accepted inside the buildings.
While restrooms will be made available upon requests, drinking fountains are out of service until further notice.
The Pennsylvania Room and Historical Museum also resumed limited in-house services Monday, but access is limited.
With two research windows per day and time for staff to clean the facility in between, patrons must make an appointment and are limited to a maximum party of six. Reservations can be made online.
Schlow Centre Region Library is still operating under limited hours and services, but doorside pick-up is offered and appointments can be made six days per week.
Fines and late fees have been waived until further notice, but returns can be made at remote drop-off boxes.
