Joplin Public Library restoring more services to patrons

Joplin Public Library staff are getting ready to implement phase three in their reopening plan.  This latest phase will allow Library cardholders access to physical library materials and restore interlibrary loan services.

Library staff is now offering limited hours for curbside pickup of items “on hold”.  Cardholders will be able to put items on hold at joplinpubliclibrary.org or by calling the Library. Items will be ready 24 hours after they are placed on hold. This new service will operate between the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

When users arrive at the Library a library staff member will verify their library card number and bring the items to the vehicle.

To provide overall safety, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Enter the Library parking lot from the 20th Street entrance
• Once in the lot, enter the circle drive from the east entrance only
• Stay in your car
• Have your Library card out and ready
• Return all previously checked out items using the exterior book drop
• Do not use this service if you are not feeling well
• Keep book donations at home; they will not be accepted during this time

Hold items will already be checked out to the users before they arrive, to streamline the pickup process.  All due dates have been extended by seven days to accommodate this.

Phone reference will be available during curbside pickup hours, and users continue to have 24 hours access to the Library’s online resources, including eBooks, eAudiobooks, online resources and learning tools.

Library staff cannot sanitize every item that is checked out, but will quarantine returned items for a minimum of 24 hours before checking in and re-shelving.  It is recommended that Library users wash their hands after handling library materials and avoid touching their face.

Library staff and the Board of Trustees will continue to monitor the situation and adjust services and phases as needed to protect Library staff and the community.  Stay up-to-date by following the Library’s Facebook page and visiting the website.