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Martin County libraries open doors again

FAIRMONT — Sitting at home for the past several months has been difficult for many Americans, who would rather be out and doing something productive.

One of the time-honored ways to pass the time is to sit down with a good book. Whether it’s finding something new or revisiting a beloved classic, local libraries have usually been able to assist readers.

However, COVID-19 restrictions and a desire to keep people safe has meant closing off libraries from patrons. Fortunately, all Martin County Library locations have found a way to reopen. Library director Jenny Trushenski shares information about which programs are running and how Martin County residents can safely enjoy their libraries once again.

“There’s hand sanitizer at each entry of the buildings when you come in,” she said. “We also have some social distancing markers, so that when you’re waiting to be assisted at the desk you know where to stand. We also have a screen guard up between the staff and the patrons.”

Those who visit also are asked to wear a mask.

“People have been very respectful and because our building capacity is limited, that allows people to practice their social distancing,” Trushenski said.

Another change is in the usual events offered by the library.

“We are not having any large events this summer,” she said. “All of our library programs, in terms of having a speaker or presenter of some sort, have been canceled through July.”

However, not everything has changed.

“We are still having a summer reading program, but it’s modified from what we normally do,” Trushenksi said. “Kids can come in and get a free book, we have some take and make activities, and some challenges and things like that are still available for kids. They can get the information for that and get enrolled at any of our four libraries in the county.”

Making an appointment to go to the library may seem like a strange difference, but Trushenski notes that it allows families with children to browse the library safely.

“In Fairmont, we have family ‘Browse and Go’ appointments, so if you want to bring your kids in to pick out their own books, which they really like to do, we just ask that you call and make an appointment,” she said.

Trushenski said the appointments also help library staff make sure they can accommodate people, simply because building capacity is limited. Also, she says the libraries are still providing contact-less pickups.

“I think getting all of our procedures in place first was important,” she says. “We’re doing everything that we can to keep both the community and our staff safe. But it’s nice to see people back in the building and to see kids in the building.”

For more information, people can visit www.martincountylibrary.org or search for the library’s Facebook page.

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