The Stephenson Memorial Library in Greenfield will begin to allow patrons without computer access to use library computers in addition to resuming some other services on Tuesday. Patrons can return books in the book drop, reserve times to use the computer inside, and select free books from a cart outside.
The library opted to offer computer services before they delved into lending hard materials in order to reach residents impacted by the pandemic, Director David Bridgewater said, who might need to conduct job searches or check an unemployment claim and have no other means of access. A couple people have requested to use the library’s technology over the past couple months of closures, he said.
Patrons can now make appointments between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to use the computer. Computers are stationed six feet apart and the keyboard and mouse will be wrapped in plastic for each visit, and a mask is required inside the building, according to procedure on the library’s website.
Bridgewater said he sees the extension of services as an opportunity to gauge the level of interest and whether patrons can follow the library’s guidelines before they consider letting people into the library by appointment for browsing.
There are currently more than 700 items checked out of the library, which can now be returned Tuesday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in an effort to not overwhelm the small book drop. The books will be quarantined upon return.
Patrons can select free books from a cart that will be stationed outside the library on sunny days. The books are from previous book sales and have not been touched in the past three months, and are not returnable.