WS Chronicle

The Forsyth County Public Library system is expanding its To-Go Library hours to accommodate its summer reading push and community interest in expanded services. 

Beginning on Monday, June 15, new To-Go Library hours will be: 

*Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 

*Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

*Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 

The library system is working toward a partial reopening to the public toward the end of June, said Director Brian D. Hart. “We understand that people are attracted to our branches as destinations to independently learn, explore or simply relax, and we look forward to safely welcoming them back into our spaces to briefly browse our collections or just be,” he said. 

The current proposal calls for all ten branches to be open Monday-Friday, from 10 a.m-5 p.m. beginning on Monday, June 29, Hart said. Library management is working with the Forsyth County Department of Health and other experts to determine the number of people allowed inside its branches at one time. 

Five branches and the bookmobile will offer 30-minute computer appointments. The branches were chosen to help make public computers convenient and accessible across the county for those who really need them, Hart said. 

Branches offering limited computer use include: 

*Southside 

*Central 

*Lewisville 

*Walkertown 

*Malloy/Jordan East Winston Heritage Center 

Bookmobile travels to various shopping centers and locations. Library customers will be able to access Wi-fi at all locations, Hart said. 

Returning customers will be given guidance on the best ways to enjoy the library in a safe, responsible and courteous manner to others, Hart said. There will be some directional signs to help people navigate the branches as well as guidance on social distancing and wiping down computers before and after use. The Library is also asking that all customers wear masks, and will provide masks for customers who don’t have one of their own. 

As the Library moves through its various phases of reopening, Hart said that management would be prepared to reassess its procedures and step back to a more limited phase of use, if there’s a resurgence of COVID-19 in the area. 

The Library hasn’t yet determined a date to fully reopen, Hart said. Library management is working with Forsyth County to evaluate such practices as limited hours and low or no-contact programming. Meeting rooms will not be available at this time. 

“Safety and service are priorities for us. We look forward to serving the community in a responsible and respectful manner,” Hart said. “We realize that the Library can be a source of security and sanctuary for many of our customers in these times and we don’t take that trust or responsibility lightly.”