By Sheldon Spackman

Easing Restrictions

Red Deer Public Library reopening starting March 15

Mar 10, 2021 | 11:18 AM

Red Deer Public Library (RDPL) is busy getting ready to reopen its three branches after the province announced March 1 that libraries can open to 15 per cent of fire code occupancy, not including staff.

The Dawe and Timberlands branches are slated to open for public admittance starting March 15, followed by the Downtown branch March 22.

Until then, only contact-less curbside pickup service remains available at all locations.

RDPL CEO Shelley Ross says 22 people will be allowed in the Timberlands Branch at any one time, 82 people in Dawe Branch at one time and 110 people in the Downtown Branch.

“In order to manage this number we encourage our patrons to come and go as quickly as possible,” says Ross. “We will enforce a one hour maximum visit if we reach capacity and have to manage crowds.”

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Ross says staff will continue to encourage use of hand sanitizer upon entering their locations, as well as use of the self-check units, and placing touched materials visitors do not want to borrow in bins so that employees can quarantine them for 72 hours.

“Masks covering the nose, mouth and chin must be worn at all times within the library,” adds Ross. “No food or drink is permitted. Patrons must do their best to stay two metres apart unless they live in the same dwelling.”

Ross says those who cannot or choose not to wear masks or who do not feel safe entering the library, are welcome to continue using their popular curbside service as described on their website.

Following a town hall meeting with Alberta Health Services (AHS) on Tuesday, Ross says it was clarified that although libraries are permitted to reopen, the goal is still to try to keep people at home and not be exposed to risk.

“With this earlier than planned opening, the goal is access to resources, not to encourage social gathering.”

Visit www.rdpl.org for more information.