Next week, San Mateo County Libraries (SMCL) will reopen most of its libraries — with modifications — for the first time since the start of the pandemic in March 2020.
The initial in-library offerings, called Express Service, officially launches Thursday, April 22 at 12 locations. Express Service will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and include in-library browsing, Wi-Fi access, and computer and printer access, according to SMCL. Libraries will close midday for high-touch surface cleaning and community members are asked to limit their visits to 60 minutes, as there will be building capacity limits.
Contactless curbside services — including holds pickup, printing, and no-appointment walk-up service — will continue at most locations Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Programs and events will continue to be done virtually.
“Although we are exceptionally proud of our new curbside and virtual services, welcoming patrons back to in-library services will be a happy moment for all of us,” Library Director Anne-Marie Despain said in a statement.
Photo of North Fair Oaks Library — now being operated by San Mateo County Libraries — courtesy of SMCL.
