Goshen Library to welcome in-person browsers Feb. 1
Goshen. Library originally opened in midst of the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918.
| 26 Jan 2021 | 12:15
The Goshen Public Library & Historical Society continues will reopen for in-person browsing on Monday, Feb. 1. Photo source: Butler Rowland Mays Architects, LLP
All visits in the building will be limited to 30 minutes in which patrons will be able to browse the collections, check out books, use the copiers, print, fax, ask for assistance or use the public computers.
“The Goshen Public Library & Historical Society continues to adapt services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The building will reopen for in person browsing on Monday, Feb. 1.
The building temporarily pivoted to curbside service only in response to the increased COVID-19 cases during the holiday season.
All visits in the building will be limited to 30 minutes in which patrons will be able to browse the collections, check out books, use the copiers, print, fax, ask for assistance or use the public computers.
Precautions
While browsing, patrons are asked to make an effort to only handle what they plan to borrow. Gloves will be provided for use during browsing.
Any items not borrowed should be placed on tables labeled unwanted books. Patrons may need to wait to enter the building if the maximum number of people per floor has been reached.
Curbside service will continue to be available and is conveniently located at a window near the outdoor book drop box. Patrons can pick up materials and receive assistance with wireless printing, faxing, copying and more.
Inside the building, computers have been spaced six feet apart and are disinfected between each use.
Call the reference desk (845-294-6606 ext. 106) to reserve a computer. Computer sessions will be limited to 30 minutes.
In addition, Wi-Fi service is available in the parking lot.
All borrowed materials are to be returned to the outside book drop before entering the building. Items are quarantined upon return.
Community and tutoring rooms will remain closed until further notice. Outdoor seating (benches and gliders) is available on the porch for enjoyment by patrons.
Visit www.goshenpubliclibrary.org for information on remote programs available for patrons of all ages.
May 27, 1918
While the changes in our lives as a result of the spread of COVID-19 are new to all of us, this is not the first time the library has endured a pandemic.
The library’s former building at 203 Main St. opened its doors on May 27, 1918, the same year the infamous Spanish influenza pandemic began to ravage the world.
A look back at the minutes of meetings from 1918 tells the news that the building closed its doors in the months of October and November by order of the Board of Health due to the rising number of cases of Spanish influenza.
Guidelines and library hours today
“We are all very excited and looking forward to welcoming our patrons back into our building again,” said Erica Gati, who handles human resources and payroll for the library. “The well-being of our community and staff is always our top priority, which is why we have implemented the following health and safety guidelines.”
Patrons are asked to respect the following guidelines:
● Do not enter the library if you have or recently had a fever, cough, shortness of breath or feel ill in any way.
● Masks covering both your nose and mouth must be worn at all times in the Library. Noone will be permitted to enter the building without a face mask.
● Gloves, which will be provided by the Goshen Public Library, must be worn by patrons while browsing the book stacks.
● Practice social distancing; stay at least six feet from library staff and other patrons who are not a member of your household.
● Upon entry into the library, we ask that all patrons sign in and provide us with either their telephone number or email address for contact tracing purposes.
● All materials must be returned to the outside book drop, returns cannot be accepted inside.
Hours are:
Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday closed.