Lewes Public Library announces phased reopening plan

The Lewes Public Library announced plans for a phased reopening in coordination with Sussex County Department of Libraries and the Delaware Division of Libraries.

Library Director Lea Rosell said, “My co-workers and I are looking forward to returning to the building, but our main concern is the safety of the staff and patrons. Beginning June 1, the library will open its book drop, have limited staff in the building receiving and processing materials, as well as cleaning and preparing our facility for more robust patron services in mid-June.”

Library users will be able to place items on hold online or by calling the library during hours to be announced. Staff members are busy developing procedures for curbside, contactless pickup of materials by appointment. Once this service is live, updates will be posted to the library’s social media and website.

When returning materials to the library, there will be a minimum of 72 hours before the items are removed from patron accounts. Based on the latest information from the Northeast Document Conservation Center and the American Library Association, a three-day quarantine is recommended for all returned materials.

Patrons will accrue no fines during this phased reopening period.

Until it is safe to open the doors, the library continues to offer digital resources and virtual programs accessible at www.lewes.lib.de.us.

During this time, the Delaware Division of Libraries is offering digital library cards that provide users with access to digital materials while physical libraries remain closed. For digital card applications, go to www.dlc.lib.de.us.

Free Wi-Fi is available in the parking lot, and patrons are encouraged to be mindful and practice safe social distancing.