CARP – Booklovers unite, the end is nigh.

The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) announced today (June 24) the Carp branch will re-open for contactless service on Monday, July 13.

The bad news is West Carleton’s other OPL branches in Constance Bay and Fitzroy Harbour yet to have a date determined for their re-opening.

“As part of its phased approach to resuming physical Library services, the OPL will be allowing customers to reserve new library items, and expand its returns and holds pick-up service to more branch locations in the coming weeks,” OPL staff released in a statement today.

Starting June 29, customers will be able to reserve new library items, with a limit of 20 holds per customer.

“This temporary cap will help manage the volume of requests and allow materials to get out to customers in a timely and efficient manner,” the OPL said.

On Monday, July 6 curbside service becomes contactless service. Starting July 6, customers will be able to come inside the six currently open branches to pick up their holds and borrow them using the checkout machines. 

“At this time, appointments will be required for customers who wish to pick up their available holds,” the OPL said. “Physical distancing requirements and enhanced cleaning protocols will be followed at each branch offering the service.”

The returns and holds pickup contactless service will be expanded to these branches following this anticipated timeline (subject to change)”

Monday, July 13: Carlingwood, Carp, Greely, North Gloucester, St. Laurent, Stittsville. 

Monday, July 27: Alta Vista, Blackburn Hamlet, Centennial, Elmvale Acres, Emerald Plaza

Monday, August 10: Sunnyside, Hazeldean, Manotick, Orleans, Richmond, Rideau, Vanier 

“The opening date for the following branches remains to be determined for Constance Bay, Fitzroy Harbour, Metcalfe Village, Munster, North Gower, Osgoode, Rockcliffe Park, Rosemount (Depot), Vernon, Kiosk and the Bookmobile,” the OPL said. “Further details regarding reopening will be shared on the OPL website and social media channels as branches prepare to open for contactless service.” 

Borrowed Library material can be returned to branches open for contactless service during hours of operation. No appointment is required to return Library items.  

 Due dates on all checked-out Library items have been extended to give customers plenty of time to return their library materials. 

 The OPL cannot accept book donations at this time. 

“The OPL continues to work on a plan to safely provide the use of public computers and WiFi at its branches open for contactless service,” the OPL said. “Public computers and WiFi are not currently available for use. The timeline for other OPL reopening priorities, such as browsing a limited collection or accessing various spaces, remain to be determined pending further easing of restrictions by the provincial government. 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.”

The OPL 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 the expansion of the returns and holds pickup service, please visit BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca.