Library begins curbside service

Director Matt McClelland carries out a set of books to patrons at the Putnam County Public Library. Staff implemented curbside service beginning Tuesday.

Courtesy photo

The Putnam County Public Library introduced curbside service beginning on Tuesday. Previous to this, the building has remained closed to the public since March 17 due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Since that time, the library has continued to serve patrons through digital offerings such as e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines and streaming videos. The library has also continued to serve the community by issuing library cards, answering reference questions and assisting patrons with library services.

“At the Putnam County Public Library, we believe that libraries are one of the best community outlets to provide both resources and services,” said Director Matt McClelland. “Our goal during this crisis has been and will continue to be providing as much access as we can, while protecting our greatest resource: our staff and patrons.”

Curbside service at the library will expand the library’s current services and offerings by allowing patrons to place orders for books, DVDs and CDs. They will then receive them via contactless delivery that follows the current best practices such as social distancing, PPE use, quarantine of returned materials and limited contact with patrons.

Paired with curbside service, the library has also expanded its reference services to include a digital format while the building is closed to the public.

Virtual reference services at the library allow staff to directly assist patrons via video conferencing. Virtual reference can be accessed through the library’s website. General adult reference, local history, and technology help will be available through this service.

Patrons can place a curbside service order via phone, email or through their Evergreen Indiana account during normal library hours. Curbside pickup times are currently being scheduled on Tuesdays from 4-7 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Residents without a library card can register for a card by pre-registering online.

“At PCPL, so much of our best work involves friendly and personal interactions while visiting our library. It has been an adjustment for everyone,” McClelland added. “During the building closure, the library staff has worked tirelessly to continue to provide these essential services to the community outside of the physical building.”

For more information about curbside service or virtual reference hours, visit www.pcpl21.org.