The Minot Public Library has adjusted its hours and services as the facility continues to serve its patrons during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning today, the Minot Public Library’s hours are:
- Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
The first hour of each day will be reserved for at-risk patrons. Patrons under the age of 8 are welcome anytime the Library is open, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. “We have been incredibly happy to be open and help our patrons, but we continue working to keep everyone safe, which means we will continue to limit our hours and services,” Library Director Janet Anderson said.
Some of the other service changes that remain in effect include: limited public seating, book donations cannot be accepted, homebound delivery is suspended and interlibrary loan services will be available on a case-by-case basis. Meeting rooms and study rooms are also available on a case-by-case basis and most programs have been moved to virtual platforms, though some will be hosted inperson.
To find out about all of the programs available, visit www.minotlibrary.org and click on “Events Listing.” Limited public computers will be available for 60 minutes per day, per person. This includes the Library’s microfilm readers and Makerspace computers. For information on printing, faxing, scanning and copying services please call (701) 852-1045 or e-mail minottecht@gmail.com.
The Library staff will be deep cleaning in the morning before opening and also during the afternoon and evening hours. Patrons are asked to heed social distancing recommendations and to consider wearing a mask when coming to the library as staff will be wearing masks to protect patrons. “The Library has implemented many changes in the last few months and we are continuing to adapt as needed. We have been sanitizing all of the items that are returned by patrons after a quarantine period,” Adult Services Librarian Zhaina Moya said. “We will also continue to offer curbside pick-up until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday as long as patrons reserve their items by 5 p.m. the day prior to picking up.”
Patrons can reserve items online, via phone or using the Librista app. In an effort to ensure people only come to the Library if they feel it is safe, patrons will not be accruing overdue fines on items due March 15 and later until the library opens for regular hours.
“We are so grateful for the support we’ve received from our patrons and we hope they continue to understand that we care about their health. That’s why we hope they plan their library visits to be as quick and safe as possible,” Anderson said.