COVID protocols were in place as patrons returned to the Winthrop library last week.
Re-openings allow users to ‘browse, check out and go’
The Twisp and Winthrop libraries have re-opened to a grateful public, after having closed their doors in March because of COVID-19 restrictions.
Both libraries opened last week and are operating with limited hours, at 25% occupancy. But that hasn’t slowed library patrons from stopping in.
“People are coming in and checking out stacks of books,” said Winthrop librarian Ree West. “This is a community of readers, and they’re happy we’re open again.”
LIBRARY HOURS
Twisp
• Tuesday and Thursday, 1-2 p.m. curbside pick-up, 3-6:30 p.m. library open.
• Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 2-3 p.m. curbside pick-up, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. library open.
• 997-4681; http://www.ncwlibraries.org/locations/twisp-public-library; twisp@ncrl.org.
Winthrop
• Tuesday and Thursday, 1:30-2:30 curbside pick-up, 3-6:30 p.m. library open.
• Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9-10 a.m. curbside pick-up, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. library open.
• 996-2685; http://www.ncwlibraries.org/locations/winthrop-public-library; winthrop@ncrl.org.
Library users may notice some differences in the layout of both libraries, as chairs and tables have been moved out.
“It’s more of a transactional experience,” said West, noting that patrons are asked to limited their visit to 30 minutes. “People can still come in a browse, but as far as sitting down to read a book, we ask that they do that at home.”
“We have prided ourselves in the library acting as an extension of people’s living rooms,” said Twisp librarian Dawn Woodruff. “But, right now there is no lingering. There is no furniture to sit down on.”
“People can browse, check out, and go,” said Woodruff. “Everyone’s have been really understanding of the changes. Really, they just want books.”
In-person programs, like kids’ story time, are still on hold. However, both libraries are continuing to stock craft and STEM take-home kits for kids. New kits are being delivered weekly from NCW Libraries. The program is being expanded to continue indefinitely.
Curbside pick-up is still being offered at both libraries, and the program’s hours have been expanded as library members are now able to place orders during the libraries’ open hours for curbside pick-up.
Computers are also available to users, who are asked to clean the surface after use, with provided sanitizing materials.
“Connecting with the community and helping them access information if our reason for being here,” said West. “We’re happy to be back. Nothing can compare to being able to browse the collection and just stumble on books.”
