Dear Patrons:
We are writing to update you on the services of the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library as the State of Ohio begins to reopen for business. On behalf of the Library’s Board and staff, we want to express our appreciation to our seven communities and their leadership for the careful way in which they have responded to this major public health challenge.
Since the coronavirus/COVID-19 public health situation forced the State of Ohio to issue a stay-at-home order, the Board and staff of the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library have worked to provide virtual services and programs to our communities. Recognizing that the health and welfare of the Library’s communities and staff is of the highest priority, the Library’s buildings have remained closed to the public since March 14, 2020.
We are writing with the good news that the Library is planning a phased reopening to the public following the recommendations, guidelines, and direction that we are receiving from federal, state, and local public health agencies. Here is the timeline that we are planning for:
- Week of May 11: Library staff will be at work preparing the buildings for public service.
- Week of May 18: Curbside service (reserving and pick-up of Library materials) will commence. Details on the process for reserving materials will be provided later this week on the Library’s website: we247.org.
- Late May/Early June: Resumption of limited library service in the buildings, strictly following the public health guidance on social distancing and other recommendations, including suggestions and requirements for wearing face coverings and limits on the number of people in each building.
Continuing Virtual Services
As the Library staff prepares for the resumption of direct Library services, we want to remind our patrons of the virtual WEPL services that have been available throughout the time that the Libraries have been closed to the public. If you have a reference question while we are closed, please send an email to virtual.reference@welibrary.info. We’re here to help!
Children’s Services
The Children’s staff of the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library recognizes the need for children to see familiar faces during this time. Because of this, they have put together over 50 videos available on our
YouTube Channel
. The videos include 20+ minute storytimes, crafts, cooking tutorials, music, and sharing of poetry, picture books and chapter books.
Children’s Services Manager Sarah Vargo and Willowick Children’s Librarian Miss Sarah conducted our first Zoom Storytime where families were able to see and interact with our librarians while listening to books and music. Beyond these personal touches, we continue to highlight the free digital resources available to our patrons including movies, books and audio books available through
Hoopla
,
Tumblebooks
, and
Overdrive
. We also offer homework help resources including
Scholastic Go
,
World Book Kids
, and
Kids InfoBits
.
Adult Services
• Guide to local COVID-19 resources and information
here
.
• New Books and New Movies shelves on our website
we247.org
. No holds can be placed in the catalog at this time, but titles can be added to your wishlist in your library card online account by logging in
here
.
eCard and your Digital Collection
• If you need a library card, fill out our eCard application online
here
.
• Stream and download music on
hoopla
.
• Comics are found on
hoopla
.
• Read newspapers including the News-Herald on
PressReader
.
•
Ancestry
database available from home until the end of May.
Community Outreach
We have converted two of our Little Free Libraries into Little Free Food Pantries. They are located at Jakse Park in Eastlake and Osborne Park in Willoughby. Take what you need and donate if you can!
As we work in this new environment of a prudent approach to public library service, the Board and staff of the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library will continue to work hard to maintain the confidence of our patrons and communities in the steps that we are taking to safely provide services to our patrons. If you have questions or concerns about our work, please email the Library Director at rick.werner@welibrary.info.
We are grateful to all of you for your support of the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library.
