We’re Here for You: 12 Things You Can Safely Do In Person at the Library

The top priority of the Library always has been and always will be you. We have rigorous safety measures in place to make sure that the resources you rely on are there for you no matter what is going on in the worldWe’re proud to be one of the many local organizations our community can lean on.  

Here are some of the in-person services we’re providing now:  

Browse and check out books and materials 

You can access all the physical books, audiobooks, movies, and albums you love in person or by using our curbside pick-up or drive-thru services. Placing holds helps get you everything faster, as not all of our stacks are open to the public at this time. Please note that some services at our Downtown Main Library, such as research assistance, do require an appointment at this time. 

Computer usage and laptop kiosks 

Connecting digitally is a must these days and, unfortunately, not everyone has access to this essential resource. The Library bridges the technology gap by providing free desktop computers and laptops at our open locations. We’ve just added additional laptop kiosk locations, so you may borrow a laptop for use inside even more branch libraries. 

Free WiFi  

Have your own device but need free access to the internet? We’ve got you! Visit our branches and sit inside masked, for up to two hours, or visit our outside spaces to use the Library’s free WiFi.  

Free printing, copying, faxing 

Important documents, interesting articles, personal mementos. You name it, we can print, copy, or fax it for free – up to 50 pages per day. You can even email your documents to us ahead of time and then stop by to pick them up to limit the time you spend inside our buildings.

Believe it or not, there are many places that still require submission of paperwork by fax, and fax machines are harder and harder to come by. We’ll fax whatever you need at the Library. The best part is, it’s free! 

Filing paperwork  

Navigating the many essential programs Jobs & Family Services and Legal Aid provide can be daunting. Our staff is here to help you print or submit your paperwork.  

Email address creation  

Need to create an email address and not sure where to start? Our staff can help you set one up from a safe distance.

MakerSpace  

Our MakerSpaces are open! Whether you need a vinyl banner, 3D printing, etching and engraving, large format printing, or access to Adobe Creative Suite, we’re ready for you. Our MakerSpaces are fully equipped, regularly sanitized, and filled with knowledgeable staff members who can assist with your latest project. Appointments are required to reserve equipment.  

Free meals 

We’ve teamed up with local organizations to provide free meals for anyone to pick up 3-6 p.m. Mondays at select Library locations. Visit our meals page to find a distribution location near you.  

Tax prep 

We teamed up with United Way to provide community members with free help filing their taxes. You can learn more about this program by reading our blog post.  

Drop-in Homework Help Sessions 

While you’re studying, you may run into an assignment you need a little guidance with. Our Homework Helpers can assist you at several of our branches. 

Outdoor Events and Storytimes 

With the weather warming back up, our outdoor, socially-distanced events are back! Find one in our calendar. 

Ask a Librarian  

You can schedule a one-on-one help session if you have questions about research, need help with your devices, or need other assistance by scheduling an appointment with one of our expert librarians.  

If in-person interactions just aren’t in your comfort zone right now, you can always visit us curbside or at one of drive-thru locations. Access all of our digital materials 24/7 on our website.