Skokie Public Library Shares Path To Reopening

Press release from the Skokie Public Library:

Big changes are happening in November. We’re wrapping up the second phase of our renovation, and that means we can open up more of our first floor.

Starting December 1, you’ll enter the library through the west doors into our beautiful new space. We can’t wait for you to see it! Learn more about what to expect when you visit. You’ll be able to pick up reserved items and return items just inside the doors when the building is open. The outside book drops on the south side of the building will be available 24 hours a day.

For everyone’s safety during the pandemic, we still have to limit capacity and available in-person services. The building will be open these hours:

• Monday-Friday, 9 am to 9 pm
• Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm
• Sunday, noon to 6 pm

The east side of the first floor, including the youth area, will be closed during the final phase of the renovation. Many youth materials will still be available for browsing and reserving, but some are going to off-site storage for several months.

To open the west side, we must temporarily close the building November 16-30. During that time, staff will clear out and move everything on the east side of the building and install furniture, shelving, and signage on the west side. We will also bring back and shelve the materials that have been in remote storage since last spring, all while maintaining safe physical distancing.

We will still be available to assist you by phone and chat, and you can continue to use curbside pickup through November 29. It may take a bit longer to get reserved items ready because our staff and our books will be on the move. Continue to wait for an email confirmation before using curbside pickup.

The last day of curbside pickup in the parking lot is November 29. Reserved materials will not be available November 30. Starting December 1, you will be able to specify whether you would like your reserved items held inside the library for self-service pickup, or on the bookmobile at a community stop. Take a look at the expanded bookmobile schedule to check what is most convenient for you.

As the public health situation continues to unfold, we may need to adjust our hours and services even further. We’re here to answer whatever questions you have. We’re proud to serve you during this transitional time, and always!

This press release was produced by the Skokie Public Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.