Aug 19, 2020


There are now two Frontenac branches of the Kingston Frontenac Public Library that have reopened.

On July 24, the Central Library branch in downtown Kingston reopened, as did the Isabel Turner and Calvin Park branches. The first Frontenac County to reopen was the Sydenham branch, on August 4th This week, in addition to the remaining Kingston branches, the Pittsburgh branch, another Frontenac County branch, Sharbot Lake, will be open to the public, subject to the now familiar restrictions on numbers of people who can access the branch at one time, and to mandatory face mask regulations that apply in all publicly accessible confined spaces.

“Beginning Thursday, Aug. 20, our Sharbot Lake Branch will be open to the public on Thursdays 1 to 5 pm and 6 to 8pm, and on Saturdays 10am to 2pm. They will also continue to offer curbside pickup on Tuesdays 1 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8pm, and on Fridays 2 to 5pm,” said a release from the Kingston Frontenac Public Library (KFPL).

“A phased reopening makes it possible to adjust our protocols as needed,” the release continues. “We’ve repositioned library furnishings to allow for physical distancing, and some computers and other equipment will be out of service. Staff will greet each patron at the door to welcome them back, ensure everyone is aware of the differences in how we will provide service, and help them find what they need.

Maximum occupancy has been determined for each location, which will result in the Sharbot Lake branch, which is small, having a very limited number of patrons at any time. Library staff will also be requesting that visitors limit their stays to maximize access by the community, and that everyone maintain safe physical distancing.

“Patrons will be required to wear a mask throughout their visit, and to touch as few materials as possible. All items are quarantined for 72 hours after they are returned to the library, and items used in branches will be quarantined as well.”

The remaining 7 Frontenac branches (Storrington, Hartington, Parham, Mountain Grove, Arden, Plevna, and Cloyne) are continuing to offer curbside pickup only, during the hours when the branches are normally open.

KFPL offered only Internet based services between March 15 and early June, when curbside pickup was initiated throughout the system.

Concern for the social distancing needs of branch employees is a factor in reopening some of the rural branches, which are small.

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