CARP – As part of its phased approach to resuming physical Library services, the Carp branch of the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) will begin offering additional in-person services starting Monday, Aug. 17. 

“New in-person services include browsing, use of public computers by appointment, and card registration,” the OPL released in a statement. “Employees at these select OPL locations will also be available to assist customers with readers’ advisory and related questions.”

The Bookmobile will begin offering contactless returns and holds pickup service on Monday, Aug. 17, with a modified schedule. No appointment is needed to pick up holds or return items at the Bookmobile. 

“Following this new wave of reopening, the OPL will have re-opened 22 of its 33 branches,” the OPL said. 

Due to staffing and operational challenges, the reopening dates for the following branches also remain to be determined:  

Constance Bay, Fitzroy Harbour, Munster, Osgoode, Rockcliffe Park, Vernon, Kiosk 

“Customers of these branches can access library services at nearby locations,” the OPL said. “In its reopening plans, OPL aims to offer physical library services equitably across the city, while responding to the operational challenges of the current situation. The health and safety of employees and customers remains OPL’s priority. OPL’s phased plan to resume physical services incorporates physical distancing requirements, enhanced sanitary controls, and protocols for employees and customers.”

Branches will respect capacity limits in line with indoor gathering limits established by the provincial government as part of phase three of re-opening.

“As a result of branch capacity limits, customers will be encouraged to limit in-branch time to ensure equitable access to everyone,” the OPL said. “Ottawa Public Library continues to follow direction from the Province of Ontario and guidance from Ottawa Public Health to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.”

For additional details on current services, please visit BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca.