FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                     

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (September 17, 2020) -- OC Public Libraries is excited to announce the next stage in reopening and providing modified service in accordance with the State of California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, with Orange County now in the red tier, libraries can reopen with modifications and capacity limited to 50%.
 

“The County of Orange is pleased to take this next step and expand core library services vital to the community,” said Chairwoman Michelle Steel, Second District Supervisor.

Beginning September 22, OC Public Libraries will offer Grab & Go services, allowing patrons to use self-service checkout of requested and limited popular items. Library buildings will be open with metered access for Grab & Go self-service checkout of patron requests and limited popular items, along with physically distanced single patron internet stations available by reservation for one-hour sessions. Contactless curbside pickup service will continue. 
 

“OC Public Libraries’ new Grab & Go service is a great way for residents, especially those in underserved communities, to safely return to county libraries and access essential services that they may not otherwise have at home, such as Wi-Fi,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do, First District Supervisor.

Hours for in-building services will be Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  New hours for curbside pickup service will be Tuesday-Thursday, 12 to 6 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Laguna Woods and Laguna Hills Technology Libraries will continue with curbside pickup service only from Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
 

“The expansion of OC Public Libraries hours allows for community members to access services at their own convenience, such as after school and work or even on weekends,” said Supervisor Donald Wagner, Third District.

Additionally, virtual programs and assistance will continue to be available via email, online chat, and in-person.  Designated public areas will be clearly marked for patrons to safely browse, and the remaining library space has been modified in compliance with State guidelines. Patrons are advised to plan ahead as seating and restrooms will not be available at this time.
 

“OC Public Libraries’ virtual programs and events are a great way for the community to remain connected to the library programs they miss,” said Supervisor Doug Chaffee, Fourth District.

Exterior book drops remain open, and all returned library items are quarantined for 96 hours, non-stacked where possible.  

“Ensuring our residents feel comfortable using our services is of high importance to the County,” said Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, Fifth District. “Our libraries will continue to offer contactless options to keep those utilizing our services confident of the County’s dedication to the health and safety of all residents.”

OC Public Libraries will evaluate the addition of possible services when modifications are determined by the State of California and Orange County guidance.

For more information about OC Public Libraries and service updates, visit ocpl.org  

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