Valley Library reopens May 28, Downtown & Douglas Libraries reopen May 31

Juneau Public Libraries will reopen next week with modified days of operation. Starting Thursday, May 28, Mendenhall Valley Public Library will be open Wednesday to Saturday each week. Starting Sunday, May 31, the Downtown and Douglas Public Libraries will be open Sunday to Wednesday. Each branch has its normal open hours. The modified schedule is part of the Juneau Public Libraries’ COVID-19 Mitigation Plan, which hopes to protect the health of library patrons and staff while resuming library services.

When the libraries reopen, here are some guidelines for this phase of reopening:

• Employees will wear face coverings while serving the public.
• Members of the public are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings. When available, face coverings will be provided. Cloth face coverings should not be worn by children under age 2.
• Social distancing of at least six feet should be maintained between individuals and household groups.
• The public should return library materials to the exterior book returns at any library.
• No in-person library programs will occur.
• The large meeting rooms at each location and the Teen room at the Valley library will be closed. The smaller study rooms will be limited to 2 people per room and the Valley conference room will be limited to 4 people.
• No member of the public displaying symptoms of COVID-19 may be present in the library; signage reflecting this will be posted outside of the library. No employee displaying symptoms of COVID-19 may come to work.
• Employees will wash their hands frequently and members of the public are encouraged to do the same using the public and/or family restrooms. Hand sanitizer will be available for staff and patrons at public service desks.
• High touch surfaces will be sanitized at least daily. Interior doors will be propped open to minimize high touch contact opportunities.

To promote proper social distancing, the libraries have limited and rearranged computer stations and furniture, installed plastic “sneeze guards” at customer service counters, and installed floor markings to indicate where library patrons should stand while waiting for the next available library staff member.

As the City and Borough of Juneau’s response to COVID-19 changes over time, these guidelines and protocols may change accordingly. CBJ appreciates the public’s assistance and patience as the libraries adapt.

For more information, contact Library Director Robert Barr at 586-0443 or [email protected].