Library Reopening

Updated November 23, 2020
Welcome back! We're excited to offer limited services inside the Library, with new health and safety measures in place. Your visit may look a little different but as always we are here to help! (*Beginning Tuesday, November 24th, you may access the Library from the West Street entrance available.)

To support the health and well being of our staff and visitors, we ask that you:

Wear a non-medical face covering inside the library, as directed by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.
Use the hand sanitizer provided, upon entering
Practice physical distancing of 2 metres (6 feet) between individuals
Limit your visit to 30 minutes
Please stay home if you, or someone in your household, are displaying COVID-19 symptoms.

The library has implemented many new protocols to ensure the safety of our staff and community including:

Mandatory masks for all library staff
Additional hand sanitizer stations installed
Plexiglass shields at customer service points
Physical distancing reminders throughout the library to stay 2 m (6 ft) away from others
Reduction of the number of available public computers to allow for physical distancing
Increased cleaning protocols throughout the facility; including the public washrooms, public computers, and frequently touched surfaces.
Limiting the number of patrons inside the building at any one time to maintain appropriate social distancing
All returned items are quarantined for a period of 72 hours before being loaned to others.

Library Hours:

Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Wednesday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Thursday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday: CLOSED

What can I do while I'm in the Library?

You Can Do This:	You Can't Do This (Yet)
-Use a computer -Print/copy/fax/scan -Browse our collection -Pick up holds -Use the catalogue -Get an interlibrary loan -Check out items -Pay fines -Get a library card -Ask questions -Get reading recommendations -Return items -Send jobs to our 3D printer -Use the Cricut vinyl cutter -Use microfilm machine/VHS Transfer machine (by appointment) -Visit the fish tank!	-Hang out/gather/sit and read -Donate books -Charge devices -Have food/drinks -Use meeting rooms -Use study rooms -Visit the Local History Room -Read newspapers -Have an exam proctored -Buy used books from Library Bookstore -Use the Family Dept's Play Pit, Whirligig and Lego

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect when using a public computer?

Public computers will be available for use on a first-come-first-serve basis. Sessions are limited to one 60 minute session per user/day. Computers will be socially distanced and availability is limited. Staff assistance will also be limited.

When are my borrowed items due?

Items signed will follow our usual loan periods and fines have been reinstated. You may return your items inside the Library during business hours or 24/7 through the outdoor Andrew Street book drop.

Is it safe to borrow Library materials?

The safety of our customers and our staff is our highest concern. We are taking precautions to ensure that the items on our shelves and any items returned to us are safe to be handled. All returned items are quarantined for a period of 72 hours before being loaned to others.

Please don't borrow library materials if you are feeling unwell or if any member of your household is sick or in isolation.

What if I don't feel comfortable coming in to the Library?

If you cannot come into the Library to pick up holds because you are compromised due to COVID-19, we can help. Please call us at 705-325-2339 when you receive a notice that your hold is ready and we will make special pick-up arrangements. If you need help selecting items and placing holds, please email us or call 705-325-2556 for assistance.

Is study or leisure space available?

Due to the limited number of visitors we can have in our space at any time, leisure spaces are not available. Furniture has been moved and covered. Study space is limited to a very small number of study tables for use by one person for a maximum of one hour. (Study rooms are not available.)