Library services are gradually resuming

According to information received from Librarian Carol Blix, the Cathlamet Public Library began curbside service yesterday, Wednesday, June 17. For curbside (actually “front porch”) pickup, patrons will phone (360-795-3254) or email (carol@townofcathlamet.com) with a list of materials after selecting them from the online catalog on the library website or and arrange a time between 2 and 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays to collect the bagged materials with their name from a table on the front porch. The number of materials checked out will be initially limited to five books/DVDs per person up to 20 per family, until they see how well the ordering/returned materials quarentine system works. Patrons are asked to return materials that have been checked out since the library closure or before, to the book drop at the back of the building.

They hope to have a limited reopening next Wednesday, June 24, when they have enough PPE on hand for staff and to offer to patrons who come without them, and have distancing reminders in place. People who enter the library will be asked to wear a face mask and put on disposable gloves, or use hand sanitizer. This is to help protect both patrons and volunteer staff, most of the latter being over age 60, some with additional health issues. The number of patrons will initially be limited to three individuals or couples or parent/child pairs at a time for up to 30 minutes for checkout or essential computer use, subject to change as they see how that works for disinfecting between patrons. Returned materials will be quarantined for 72 hours before being re-shelved or checked out again.

The library is working on details for the Children's Summer Reading Program with the theme: Imagine your Story. The program will most likely consist of grab-and-go activity bags, reading logs, a writing/art contest, gift books, prizes, and perhaps a story walk (laminated book pages placed along a trail to read the story as you walk). Watch the library's website and Facebook page for more information as it becomes available.