Lower Merion Libraries Inching Back To Normalcy, While Digital Offerings Are Expanded
According to David Belanger, Director of Lower Merion Libraries, “usage at all the library branches has been picking up, but with very few exceptions, library patrons have not had to wait to get into the building. It’s not like Trader Joe’s,” he said.
Belanger estimates that actual circulation levels have gotten back to about 50% of pre-Covid levels.
More Audio and Digital Books, Plus Movies – Available for Downloading
Holders of Lower Merion Library System cards have access to two extensive online digital services, both of which offer movies, audio books and digital books.
One of those services is Overdrive. Since the Covid-19 Pandemic began, the amount of content on Overdrive available to library card holders has been expanded considerably.
Hoopla is the other online content source that’s available to all card holders. Recently, the number of titles that can be borrowed in a month from Hoopla increased from five to seven.
Library Rules in the Time of Covid-19
• Libraries will be open for browsing with a limit of 30 minutes per person.
• Libraries will be open fewer hours. A full schedule is being developed and will be published
on the LMLS website shortly.
• Fewer people will be allowed in the building. This will allow for proper social distancing.
• To help maintain social distancing not all sections of the library will be open. A large portion
of the Ludington Library is closed for construction.
• All visitors must wear a mask while in the library.
• All persons entering the library will have their temperature taken.
• Lounging and studying in the libraries will not be allowed; most seating has been removed.
• All programs will continue online only.
• No meetings will take place in libraries.
• No tutoring will be allowed.
• The number of computers will be reduced to comply with social distancing rules.
• Computer use will be limited to 30-minute sessions by appointment only.
• No computer assistance will be available.
• While we are making significant efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19, if you don’t feel
comfortable entering the library, contactless delivery will continue.