Submitted by Nelson Public Library
The Nelson Public Library has unveiled an innovative way to put library materials in the hands of readers. Library members can now place pick up orders for library materials.
Library Takeout @ NPL is a click or call-and-collect service. Staff at the Nelson library will gather books from the shelves to be picked up by library members. Members can request specific titles or ask the librarians to choose titles.
When Library Takeout orders are ready, materials are packed in single-use paper bags. They can be picked up during pre-scheduled appointment times in order to control the number of people coming to the library. Staff members will place Library Takeout bags in spaces designed for social distancing for a contactless pickup transaction. When materials are returned to the library, they will be isolated for at least 72 hours.
“We heard from many community members about how they missed reading physical books,” says chief librarian Tracey Therrien.
“Library Takeout allows the library to safely reinstate this service. Though the library continued to serve the community virtually through our online library, welcoming back members to our building and getting physical books into their hands is exciting for both our members and library staff. Reading has helped many of us during this stressful time and now we can offer even more reading opportunities.”
To ensure the program complies with health and safety recommendations, the library sought advice from local health authorities and the City of Nelson’s health and safety department to provide feedback on the proposed plan.
During the initial launch phase of this program, the library is taking requests for materials online or by phone, and offering holds and pickup services by request.