Library Reopening

Effective Wednesday, August 26, 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! (*You must use the Mississaga Street entrance for your visit. An accessible walkway is located to the right of the Opera House.)

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

Library Hours:

Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: CLOSED *except for Curbside Pickup Service which runs 11 a.m.-6 p.m. (Building is closed to the public)
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 -Check out items -Pay fines -Get a library card -Ask questions -Get reading recommendations -Return items -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 -Get an Interlibrary Loan -Visit the Local History Room -Read newspapers -Have an exam proctored -Use 3D Printer & Cricut -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 45 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 out beginning August 26th will follow our usual loan periods. Although we are not charging fines until October 1, 2020, the Library would appreciate that items be returned on time, particularly those high demand items with waiting lists.

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 checked in and 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.

Why are items I returned still on my library card?

Returned items are set aside and isolated for a period of 72 hours before they are checked in and removed from your account. But don't worry, no late fees will be charged.

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

For those who would prefer to have a contact-free service option, we will continue to offer Curbside Pickup every Tuesday from 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Place a hold online or by phone and we will contact you when your items are ready for pickup. Email us or call 705-325-2556 for assistance.

Is study or leisure space available?

No. Due to the limited number of visitors we can have in our space at any time, study and leisure spaces are not available. Furniture has been moved and covered.