The Homewood Public Library, 17917 Dixie Highway, will be reopening to the public on Monday, March 8, on a limited basis.
Upon entering the building, patrons will receive a ticket. This will help staff keep track of how many people are in the building. The maximum allowed is 25 people per hour. Everyone must wear a mask over their nose and mouth. Hand sanitizer will be available as patrons enter and exit the library.
The library will follow its regular hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. A special time from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays is being set aside for persons who are members of compromised populations, said Colleen Waltman, library director.
Patrons will have a maximum of 45 minutes in the library. Regardless of when someone enters the library, they will be asked to leave at 45 minutes past the hour so staff can wipe down all surfaces.
Computer users will be restricted to using computers on the second floor. They will have the same 45-minute limitation, and staff will not be able to spend extended periods of time assisting users. Patrons with a Homewood library card can make an appointment to use a computer. Reservations are accepted up to one week in advance.
Homewood residents without a library card can obtain a guest pass to use a computer for a maximum of 45 minutes once during the day. Non-Homewood library cardholders and those from outside Homewood who do not have a library card can use a computer if one is available. There is a $1 fee for a guest pass, and there is a limit to a 45-minute session, starting on the hour.
Staff will continue to be available to assist patrons via the website homewoodlibrary.org or by phone at 708-798-0121. Patrons also can email at [email protected].
Waltman said at this time the library is not accepting used books for the Friends of the Library book sale, but their cart of books for sale will be available. She said the library staff is working with the organization and is hopeful some accommodations can be made “in the not too distant future.”