Carthage library set to re-open January 25 after months of repairs
After seven months of repairs, the Carthage Public Library, located at 612 S. Garrison Ave., will open again on Monday, Jan. 25.
A section of the library was seriously damaged when a malfunctioning fire sprinkler system went off on July 12, sending an estimated 150,000 gallons of the water into the structure.
The original section of the library opened in 1905.
“Not one area of our beautiful library was untouched in some way,” Library Director Julie Yockey said in a announcement posted on the Library’s Facebook page.
“Working together with contractors, insurance, and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, anything and everything that had to be repaired took extra time,” she continued. “Thank you for your patience and for using the alternate delivery methods we had available to meet your needs. Some of those methods were a huge success and will remain to be offered.”
She says approximately 1,000 books were lost but, fortunately, nothing that was irreplaceable in terms of old books and other materials. Insurance covered most of the approximately $500,000 in repairs.
On Jan. 25, doors to the main Library will open at 9 a.m. The following strict guidelines will be in place due to the continued rise in COVID-19 cases in our country. They are Board approved and will be re-evaluated after March 31.
Library hours will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.
ALL persons entering the Library from the age of 5 and up are REQUIRED to wear a mask. Those unable to wear a mask are asked to call the Library at 417-237-7040 for services that can safely be provided outside the library.
Strict social distancing practices will be in place. The library asks patrons not to visit if they are or have been sick.
All patrons will be allowed 30 minutes inside the library and it is suggested that one person per family come in to pick up materials.
There will be no community events or on-site programming until further notice. All furniture and children’s manipulatives and toys will be removed.
Curbside services will continue to be offered. Contact the Library for assistance.
Steadley Family Legacy Building and Makerspace:
A celebration Ribbon Cutting was held on December 15th for the new Makerspace and educational building built with the funds from the K.D. and M.L. Steadley Trust. The building is full of wonderful opportunities for all people in our community. The following guidelines will be in place until March 31st.
HOURS:
Monday-Tuesday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Wednesday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Saturday: 2 Saturdays a month. See library website or call the Library
ALL persons entering the Steadley building from the age of 5 and up are REQUIRED to wear a mask.
A maximum of 5 people will be allowed for one hour increments. Appointments must be made in advance.