SWAMPSCOTT — The library is once again open for visitors.
Swampscott Public Library began offering in-person appointments on Monday for visitors to browse the collection, use computers and speak to librarians.
Library Director Alyce Deveau said that just a few people signed up for an appointment on the first day, but that they were excited to get back to regular programming.
“We thought we’d start slow and get the bugs worked out before we have other people coming,” Deveau said.
During the pandemic, the library has been offering a book pickup window right out front so that members can still check out materials. Deveau said that this has been very popular, as it makes it quick and easy for people to find the books they want.
“Most people really like it,” she said. “A few people said they don’t care if we ever open again!”
In addition to the window, the library has been offering virtual programming over Zoom, and has been able to continue all of the library-run book groups online. They have also seen a lot of checkouts of digital materials like e-books.
“A lot of people like the Zoom. It’s nice, because they’re at home, get dinner and sit down to the program,” Deveau said. “We’re not sure how programing will go forward after this, but it might be a combination of both.”
To keep visitors safe, the library is requiring masks, and will have them available along with hand sanitizer and gloves at the entrance. Chairs have been removed to discourage visitors from sitting casually unless they are using computers, and arrows on the floor clearly indicate traffic flow from the front entrance to the back doors, where visitors must exit the building. To keep people from congregating at the entrance, checkout stations have been set up in each room of the library.
Library staff are continuing to quarantine books and materials for one week when they are returned to the library, and anything that people touch while browsing must be returned to a library cart to be quarantined for 24 hours. Bright orange signs that read “If you touch it, truck it” adorn the library walls to remind everyone of this rule.
Appointments at the library are available Monday through Friday for adult browsing, children’s browsing and computer usage, and to speak with the Russian librarian on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The checkout window will also continue to operate during library hours. To book an appointment, visit swampscottlibrary.org or call the library at 781-596-8867.
