The Oak Ridge Public Library started curbside pickup of library materials on Monday, May 18. The library will have its roof replaced this summer, and there is no re-opening date yet.
Here’s how the curbside pickup works:
- You place the order. To place a hold on a library item, go to the website at orpl.org and click on the Catalog tab. From there, you can search for and place holds on books, audiobooks, compact discs (CDs), and digital video discs (DVDs). You will be notified by a text, email, or phone call when your materials are ready to be picked up.
- Park in one of the parking spaces designated for library pickup and call the number on the sign. You will be asked for your name and the last four digits of your library card, as well as the number of your parking space.
- Once you have talked to a library staff member, open your trunk or car door. Library staff will bring your materials out and place them in your car.
Curbside pickup will be available Monday to Friday from 1-6 p.m.
Returned library materials will be quarantined on return to the library. In order to manage the quarantine process effectively, patrons will be able to check out a total of 25 items, a press release said. Patrons who have been with the library less than one year are still limited to a total of six items.
To place a hold on an item, patrons will need a current library card in good standing and a PIN. Items can be placed on hold online (orpl.org>catalog) or by calling (865) 425-3455, option 4.
Because items are being quarantined upon return, you may experience delays in receiving your library materials, the press release said.
“We cannot guarantee that all items placed on hold will be available at the same time,” the press release said. “Thank you for your patience as we work through this new process.”
There will be no overdue charges until the library reopens in full. If you have long overdue materials, the library is offering a no-fines amnesty for the length of its closure, the press release said.
The press release said the library does not yet have a date to re-open. This summer, the library roof is being replaced.
“Once the construction on the roof has progressed to a stage where it is safe and once we can be sure that our patrons and staff can be kept healthy, we will re-open to the public,” the press release said. “We have been working diligently while we are closed to update our collection and our building. We can’t wait to show you what we’ve done.
In the meantime, the library said you can watch its Facebook page for announcements about upcoming programs, news, and events.
The Oak Ridge Public Library is located at 1401 Oak Ridge Turnpike. The library has a Children’s Room and an achieve facility with materials dating back to the early days of Oak Ridge and the Manhattan Project.
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