Dayton Metro Library is now offering curbside pickup of reserved or requested materials. Curbside service is available at all Dayton Metro Library Branches and the Main Library, Tuesday through Friday, 3- 6pm and Saturday, 12 – 3pm. Bagged materials will be placed directly into vehicle trunks, or patrons can pick up their marked bag at the Library entrance.
Patrons may reserve items for themselves using the online catalog or call the Ask Me Line at 937-463-2665 to request materials they want to borrow. Borrowers will be notified via email, text or phone call when their items are ready, and should call the Ask Me Line to arrange for pickup. The items will be checked out to their account, then bagged for carryout at the location of their choice.
“We are eager to safely provide the books and other materials people want, while maintaining all health and safety guidelines,” said Deputy Director Rachel Gut.
Book drops are now open to accept returns as well. Borrowed Library materials must be placed directly into book drops or the return slot of the Automated Materials Handling machines at the newer Branch Libraries. Library staff will not directly accept returned materials. Items borrowed before March 13 had due dates extended to June 30.
“All returned materials will be quarantined for four days,” said Gut. “After the quarantine period, the items will be checked in and shelved, so they can be safely borrowed by other Library patrons.”
Library staff have received training on COVID-19 safety protocols. Staff wear protective face masks, wash hands frequently, wear gloves as needed, check their temperature prior to arriving at work, and follow established protocols for the safe handling of materials. Library buildings remain closed to the public at this time.
“In a recent poll, our patrons affirmed that what they miss and want most from their Library right now is access to the physical collection,” said Gut. “We are pleased to be able to offer that access with curbside service, but we look forward to a time when the public can browse our shelves once again.”
For more information about curbside service, or to request items to borrow, call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937-463-2665 or visit the online catalog atDaytonMetroLibrary.org. The Ask Me Line is now answered live Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Messages can be left at other times.
