NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The public library is halting its curbside pickup of library materials and printouts and is encouraging patrons to use its online resources. 

 

"We know how much the public appreciates it, and our staff has been happy to do it. At this time however, following the recommendation of the Massachusetts Library Association, we have decided to discontinue this service, with the last pickup being Friday, March 20," said Library Director Sarah Sanfilippo release announcing the changes. "Stopping this work goes against the work ethic of all library staff, but we feel it would be irresponsible of us to continue encouraging people to travel to the library and exchange materials in the midst of this global health crisis."

 

Sanfilippo wrote that the priority is to protect the health of patrons and staff and that could not be guaranteed if library materials continued to circulate: "We can only minimize risk, not eliminate it."

 

The library is also suspending returns; patrons should not use the book drop but keep what material they have until the crisis is over. Patrons will not be charged for overdue materials.

 

There are still library services you can access through the website, and more ebooks and emagazines are being added soon by CW MARS. A Streaming Storytime is being planned and other online projects are being discussed. Wifi is still available outside the building; just remember social distancing rules.

 

In addition, the Boston Public Library allows all citizens and people who work in Massachusetts to obtain an eCard and access online resources. Details for signing up are at the link above.

 

Remote Reference assistance is still available by phone or email as staff will continue working. Call 413-662-3133 or email reference@northadams-ma.gov.

 

Services that have been suspended: