Erie County Public Library Set to Reopen March 8

Nick Warren

Erie County officials have agreed to reopen all public library facilities after the reopening of the Erie County Courthouse, according to a release by the Erie County Public Library (ECPL). Partnering with the Erie County Department of Health, library staff will have the health and safety of the public at the front of any decisions on helping stop the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The release notes the ECPL will stay open barring any increase in local COVID-19 cases, at which point decisions will be made based on advice from the Erie County Department of Health. 

Sheryl Thomas, ECPL Assistant Director, said the staff is "a little nervous but very happy to be opening our doors again and welcoming back our patrons." Thomas noted that while the ECPL facilities have been providing curbside options for patrons, seeing familiar faces and providing full access to the facilities "will be a very nice boost."

"Patrons are excited to be returning and able to browse through the book stacks to find favorite and new titles," said Thomas. 

Patrons can expect mitigation efforts to include: 50% occupancy limit, required face covers, limited equipment and occupancy within the Blasco Library facilities, and contactless outdoor book drops. Services such as the childrens' play areas at each location and in-person programming and events will not be offered at this time. Virtual programming and online resources are still available via the ECPL website at erielibrary.org. Curbside services will resume as library staffing allows.

"We appreciate the support and patience of the community and look forward to seeing individuals (with mandatory masking) come back to use their library," said Thomas.

For more information, go to erielibrary.org.