CARP – With the end of the lockdown, the Carp branch of the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) will again offer some in-person services next week, but there is no new news on when West Carleton’s other branches will re-open.

“Additional library services are resuming at several branches starting Monday, Feb. 22,” the OPL released in a statement today (Feb. 17). “Starting Monday, Feb. 22, 25 of the 28 open OPL branches will welcome customers inside for returns and holds pick up, with additional services such as browsing and use of public computers.”

Due to provincial regulations, branch capacity will be limited, and masks must be worn both inside the branches and in lineups outside.  

The 25 branches offering these additional in-person services are: Carp, Alta Vista, Beaverbrook, Blackburn Hamlet, Carlingwood, Centennial,  Cumberland, Elmvale Acres, Emerald Plaza, Greely, Greenboro, Hazeldean,  Main, Manotick, Nepean Centrepointe, North Gloucester, North Gower,  Richmond, Rideau, Rockcliffe Park, Ruth E. Dickinson, Sunnyside, Stittsville, St.  Laurent and Vanier.  

The Bookmobile will offer a small collection for browsing at all its stops, as well as contactless returns and holds pick up.  

Hours of operation remain the same. Library customers are encouraged to check their branch’s webpage before visiting in-person.  

“Branches that remain closed are Constance Bay, Fitzroy Harbour, Munster, Osgoode, and Vernon,” the OPL said. “The OPL is working to reopen these locations as soon as possible.”

Library materials can be returned at all open branches during hours of operation. Book drops remain closed when the branches are closed.    

“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,” the OPL said. “For additional details on current services, please visit BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca.”