To the patrons of Fondulac District Library,

First and foremost, I hope this message finds you well. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding. I, along with the library staff and Board of Trustees, recognize there are many things you miss about the library, and we’ve been working hard to return those things in a safe manner for the community.

Currently, the library is offering drive-up and Atrium pickup of library materials, increased digital collections, virtual programs and online content, phone and live chat assistance, mobile printing, expanded WiFi access, and free books and media in the Atrium. We plan to continue providing these services as our library and our state transitions towards a full reopening.

At the same time, we have been carefully reviewing policies and developing procedures for the library building’s eventual reopening, always prioritizing the health and safety of our community and our staff.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, we aim to reopen the library building on Monday, July 6. Patrons will be able to enter the library for brief visits to select and check out materials, and computers and study rooms will be available by reservation for shortened periods. Reduced and staggered public service hours will allow for extra cleaning time, and high-risk patrons will be able to access the library at a specific time weekly. The library will also be subject to capacity limits, and staff will welcome all patrons at the entrance.

All patrons over the age of 2 will be required to wear masks, and we will provide a mask to those who do not have one. All staff also are required to wear masks, and hand sanitizer will be available at several locations throughout the library. Everyone will be asked to maintain at least a six-foot distance from others in the library (except from those in their own family/party), and Plexiglas barriers will be located at staff service points. The building continues to receive additional cleaning, and spaces have been reconfigured for social distancing.

All returned materials will continue to be quarantined for a period of time based on national standards before they are checked in or put back into circulation. Overdue fines are not being charged at this time. Patrons will also be able to request and receive items from other RSACat libraries. Notary service also will be available by appointment.

The following services and/or items will continue to be suspended until further notice: in-person programs, meeting room availability, most seating and tables for public use, play areas, in-library gaming, newspapers, local history browsing, and acceptance of book donations. Access to restrooms and water fountains will be limited.

Our procedures will continue to be refined and informed by guidelines and recommendations from legal counsel, national, state, and local authorities and public health officials, and professional library organizations. Again, our top priorities are the health and safety of our patrons, staff, and community. Proceeding cautiously gives us the best chance to continue moving forward.

We recognize you may have questions, and we look forward to sharing more details next week.

Please continue to take care to stay healthy and to help others remain safe. We look forward to enjoying the library together again very soon.

– Genna M. Buhr, Library Director