by Sylene Argent
After having to keep doors closed for the past while, due to COVID, the Essex County Library Branch was able to open several of its larger branches on Monday.
The branches selected for re-opening included Essex Centre, Amherstburg, Kingsville, Lakeshore (Toldo), LaSalle, Leamington, and Tecumseh.
Manuela Denes, Manager of Community Services for the Essex County Library, noted that the Branches will not all be operating at the same hours for the first little while. She urged library users, or those thinking of getting a membership, to check for hours of operation and updates via www.essexcountylibrary.ca or through its social media.
Cardholders can access libraries to take out books and get on the computers to use the internet, and print or scan documents. There will be no time limit for members to enjoy the spaces. The libraries will, however, be open with a maximum capacity of 25 people.
Visitors will be expected to follow COVID-19 guidelines, such as mask wearing, hand sanitizing, and practicing social distancing, Denes said.
At this time, no activities will take place inside the branches. All programming will continue virtually as it has during the pandemic. Virtual programming can be found on its social media and YouTube pages.
“We are just really excited to be able to have people in our spaces again,” Denes said, adding the local library system has been offering curb-side pick-up for months. “It has been wonderful, but it is nice to get people back in.”
Now that branches are open, the curb-side pick-up option will no longer be available.
Getting a library card gives members access to the online services available on its website, which includes to eBooks, movies, music, and documentaries. There are also great services for youths through the online service, Denes said.
Individuals have been making use of the online services over the pandemic, which the library system has been excited about, Denes said.
Denes added the Essex County Library is particularly excited to launch a book club for the entire county, called “One Book, One County.” The title being used for this season through this new program is “Emancipation Day” by Wayne Grady.
“It is a fantastic book,” Denes said, noting Grady grew up in Windsor. The book will be available starting July 26 until October 31 on Overdrive, where members can access eBooks and audio books. The great thing about the program is that there are no wait lists or hold lists, Denes said.
A virtual meet the author event will take place at 7pm on Wednesday, August 4.
“That’s our big summer event. We are really excited about that,” Denes said.