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Burlington Public Library Reopens to Public Without Appointments

David Hightower
Kody and Lucas Downer, with Grandma Teri Miller browse at the Burlington Public Library (3/3/21)

The Burlington Public Library is allowing people in without an appointment for the first time since November, when COVID cases were spiking in the community.

"People are welcome to come in and browse, and check out (books), they can make copies, scan, fax, print, use our computer lab, lots of things we've always been able to do -- just a little bit different,” said Library Director Rhonda Frevert. 

Frevert said that the library is open for "checking out, not hanging out" so they have removed some of the reading chairs. They're asking people to socially distance, wear a mask, and limit how much time they spend in the library.

Frevert said the library will continue to offer curbside services and virtual programming. She also said they'll continue to have weekly "Take Home Activity Kits," which Frevert said have become popular recently.

"People can come and pick them up, take it home and do activities with their kids. And we have them for older kids as well, and some for adults," Frevert said.

Frevert said the past year has shown just how important internet and technology access are for the community, so the library's computer lab is open and available. She said they have also installed a new "express" computer station for people who only need a few minutes online.

For people who need access at home, Frevert said the library now has Chromebook kits, which include a computer and wireless hotspot that can be checked out for a week at a time. The library already offered wireless hotspots that can be checked out, although Frevert said there is a waiting list.

The Library is open from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Saturday for both in-building and curbside services. The Friends of the Library Footnotes bookstore will also open to the public on Thursday, March 4.

David Hightower is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.