OSHKOSH (NBC 26) — The Oshkosh Public Library announced its plans for expanding library services in a way that is safe for the community and library staff.
Library staff said the building will remain closed to the public for the time being, but staff will still be available for questions by phone, email, and chat during regular library hours.
For a full list of online resources for reading, learning, and entertainment visit OshkoshPublicLibrary.org.
Although there is no set date for re-opening the building to the public, Library Director Jeff Gilderson-Duwe outlined Phase One of library service and explained the criteria for moving forward with expanded services.
“Our plan is to implement a phased expansion of services, based on data tracked in the state’s Badger Bounce Back Plan,” Gilderson-Duwe said. “When public health data for our state shows a significant and sustained downward trend in COVID-19 cases, we will begin to offer limited services, with an emphasis on helping people who are recovering from the impact of COVID-19.”
According to Gilderson-Duwe, Phase One will include:
- Computer and internet access inside the building, available by appointment only to people who need help with activities such as working on resumes, applying for unemployment benefits, filing taxes, filling out the census, or applying for small business loans
- Curbside pickup service will continue as the safest way to access library materials
- Virtual programming will continue on the library's YouTube channel and the Facebook, offering learning and entertainment for all ages
Gilderson-Duwe said the response to the library's curbside pickup service has been enthusiastic. He realizes that library patrons are impatient to get back inside the building to browse the shelves, but he emphasizes that safety needs to be the priority.
"We know you miss browsing for materials and can't wait to welcome you back when public health data indicates it can be done safely," explains Gilderson-Duwe.
Guided by recommendations from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and Centers for Disease Control, the library is doing intensive cleaning, ordering supplies, and reconfiguring public spaces and work areas to accommodate social distancing.
Despite the current challenges, the library said they are moving forward with an online 2020 Summer Reading Challenge starting June 15. Staff say they have been working to create a digital program for children, teens, and adults which can be used on a computer, smartphone, or tablet to track reading and activities. A paper reading record will still be available for those who need it. Details will soon be available on the library's website.
“The last few months have been challenging for everyone – particularly for students and their families,” Gilderson-Duwe said. “We want everyone to approach summer reading with a sense of fun and our new digital platform has features that will make it more convenient than ever to participate."
You can call the library during regular hours at (920) 236-5203 for Public Services, (920) 236-5205 for Information Services, and (920) 236-5208 for Children's and Family Outreach.
