Library returning to curbside service due to COVID spike

The Oak Ridge Public Library will close to the public and return to curbside pickup only after the Thanksgiving holiday due to the dramatic increase in local COVID-19 cases, a press release said.

Curbside hours are Monday through Saturday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Starting Monday, November 30, library users can place holds on books, movies, music, and audiobooks through the library’s catalog at http://orpl.ent.sirsi.net/. Patrons will be notified when their items are ready to be picked up. Look for the reserved parking spaces in the library’s parking lot, call the number on the sign, and library staff will bring your items to your car. If you need help finding items to read, watch, or listen to, you can call (865) 425-3455 for assistance placing holds.

Wireless hot spots are available to the public through the library’s curbside service, the press release said. You can place hot spots on hold through the library’s catalog or call the front desk for assistance.

Patrons can print from their phone or other device via the mobile printing service at ORPL.org and pick up their prints through curbside. Prints will be held for 7 days, and cost $0.10 per page, the press release said.

“We are also excited to announce a new Reference chat and text feature. For patrons needing reference help, our reference team is available via chat, text, and email,” Oak Ridge Public Library Director Julie Forkner said.

Here’s how it works:

• Go to ORPL.org and click on “Ask a Librarian.”
• Chat with or text Reference staff from your phone, mobile device, or computer.
• Chat is accessible from the library website or by texting (865) 324-0400.
• A friendly Reference staff member will respond to your question when chat is available.

When staff is busy or unavailable, you can always email Reference@oakridgetn.gov and a staff member get back with you as soon as possible, the press release said. As always, if texting, chatting, or emailing is not an option, call (865) 425-3455.

Unfortunately, the library will not be able to accept donations while the building is closed, the press release said. Please hold onto any gently used books until the library is fully open to the public once again, the release said.