Library Updates - Fondulac District Library

COVID-19 Update Library Closed 11/25-11/29

COVID Service Update 11/23/2020:

Due to the continued increasing community spread of COVID-19, Fondulac District Library will now be closed Wednesday, November 25, through November 29, 2020. The library will reopen Monday, November 30, with changes to services and no public access to the library building until further notice.

Service hours will remain:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am – 6pm

Tuesday & Thursday 12-8pm

Saturday 9am-1pm

Services:

Patrons will still be able to pick up materials and mobile printing from the drive-up window and atrium. Notary service will be available by appointment. Card registration, digital collections, and resources are still available online. WiFi and drop boxes can still be accessed outside the building. Computers, copiers, faxing, browsing, and study rooms will not be available until further notice.

Patrons may place holds on FDL materials using the online catalog, through the RSAcat Mobile app, or by contacting the library. Staff will be available to help patrons select materials, answer questions, place holds, assist with accounts, and access our digital collection via phone, email, and live chat during service hours. The library will continue to provide virtual programming and Take & Make activities for all ages.

Returned materials are still being quarantined for 3 days in accordance with current recommendations, so it still takes longer to receive items from other libraries or for items to be cleared from your account. Please visit our Fine Free Policy page for info about fines and exceptions being made for COVID-19.

These decisions were made in order to continue providing services while following public health guidelines to prioritize the health and safety of our patrons, staff, and community. We appreciate the community’s ongoing support through the pandemic and encourage everyone to stay safe!

Beth Weimer2020-11-23T14:28:14-06:00November 23rd, 2020|

COVID-19 UPDATE Library Closed 11.16.2020

COVID Service Update 11/13/2020:

Due to the continued increasing community spread of COVID-19, the library will be closed Monday, November 16, 2020, and will reopen Tuesday, November 17, 2020, with changes to services and limited public access to the building until further notice.

Service hours will remain:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am – 6pm

Tuesday & Thursday 12 – 8pm

Saturday 9am – 1pm

Services:

Patrons will still be able to pick up materials and mobile printing from the drive-up window and atrium. Patrons may use computers in the lobby of the library by making a reservation. Notary service, card registration, and use of the copier will also be available in the lobby. All patrons entering the lobby must wear a mask and follow social distancing guidelines. WiFi and drop boxes can still be accessed outside the building.

The book stacks (browsing) and study rooms will be closed to the public until further notice. The children’s department and the second floor are closed. Patrons may place holds on FDL materials using the online catalog, through the RSAcat Mobile app, or by contacting the library. Staff will be available to help patrons select materials, answer questions, place holds, assist with accounts, and access our digital collection via phone, email, and live chat during service hours.

The library will continue to provide virtual programming and Take & Make activities, and our digital collections and online resources are available to patrons 24/7.

Returned materials are still being quarantined for 3 days in accordance with current recommendations, so it still takes longer to receive items from other libraries or for items to be cleared from your account. Please visit our Fine Free Policy page for info about fines and exceptions being made for COVID-19.

These decisions were made in order to continue providing services while following public health guidelines to prioritize the health and safety of our patrons, staff, and community. We appreciate the community’s ongoing support through the pandemic and encourage everyone to stay safe!

Beth Weimer2020-11-20T16:12:37-06:00November 13th, 2020|

National Friends of Libraries Week

October 18-24 is National Friends of Libraries Week! This week is a time to celebrate and show appreciation for our Friends of Fondulac District Library, an amazing group of volunteers who dedicate countless hours of their time to support the library. The Friends of FDL maintain our ongoing Book Sale and host the annual BIG Book Sale, support the troops with holiday cards and participate in the Veterans Day Parade, host and make items for the huge Holiday Craft and Bake Sale, volunteer for events like Star Wars Day and the FOLEPI Enchanted Forest, sponsor our summer reading programs and babysitting classes, and more!

FDL is so grateful for their hard work and staff can’t wait to see their smiles in the library again! We’ve missed our Friends dearly this year since most of their events have been cancelled due to COVID-19, but you can still join the group or make a donation to support their endeavors! New members are always welcome, and membership only costs $5 per year. Learn more about our amazing Friends at fondulaclibrary.org/support-fdl/friends/!

Beth Weimer2020-10-19T10:59:33-05:00October 19th, 2020|

Candidate Petitions Available

Two six-year Fondulac Public Library District Board of Trustee seats are up for election in the April 6, 2021, consolidated election. Terms are May 2021 through April 2027.

Petition packets, including instructions, will be available for pickup at the library Business Office starting September 29,2020, and can be filed with the library Business Office between December 14 and 21, 2020. If you come in the evening, on the weekend, or when the Business Office is closed, staff at the Checkout Desk will be able to assist you.

Petitions will be required to have 50 signatures of qualified voters residing in the district. More information regarding the election can be found in the State of Illinois Candidate’s Guide. Page 45 of the Candidate’s Guide relates to Public Library Districts and is available from the Illinois State Board of Elections. (Direct download from https://www.elections.il.gov/DocDisplay.aspx?Doc=/Downloads/ElectionOperations/PDF/2021CanGuide.pdf&MID=367.)

More information about the library’s Board of Trustees can be found at https://www.fondulaclibrary.org/about-us/trustees/.

genna2020-09-29T15:46:17-05:00September 29th, 2020|

FDL is Officially Fine Free!

September is national Library Card Sign-Up Month, and FDL is excited to celebrate by announcing we are now officially FINE FREE! The Board of Trustees has revised library policies to stop the assessment of overdue fines for items checked out at FDL and approved clearing all outstanding overdue fines on items checked out at FDL from patron accounts, effective September 1, 2020.

We’re making these changes to provide the community with more equitable access to library materials and services. Studies have shown that fines do not motivate borrowers to return items on time and actually make people less likely to visit or return to the library. Eliminating fines as a financial barrier will expand access, services, and benefits to the FDL community.

However, “no more fines” doesn’t mean “no responsibility!” Patrons are still expected to adhere to loan periods and return or renew items on or before the due date, and patrons will still be responsible for the repair, replacement, or collection fees for lost or damaged items. Please visit our Fine Free FAQ page for more details about these new policies.

Clearing existing fines applies to anything checked out at FDL no matter where the item is from, where the patron’s library card is from, or where the item is returned. Patrons are still responsible for fines due to other libraries.

Additionally, renewing or signing up for a library card in September will earn patrons an entry into a prize drawing for an Amazon Fire HD8 tablet! District residents can sign up for a card at the Circulation Desk or online. Cards can be renewed at the Circulation Desk or the drive-up window.

FDL celebrates Library Card Sign-Up Month with the American Library Association and libraries nationwide to remind parents, caregivers, and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning. There’s nothing more empowering than using your library card to access books, technology, resources, and educational programs — tools and opportunities for people of all ages to pursue their dreams and passions.

Beth Weimer2020-09-01T10:03:51-05:00September 1st, 2020|

RSAcat Mobile App

If you haven’t used the new RSAcat Mobile app yet, you’re missing out!

This app brings the library to your fingertips — manage your account, search the catalog, renew checkouts, and place holds at your convenience. Scan the ISBN barcode of any book you encounter to see if it’s available from the library. Use the app to connect directly to our digital collections (think eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, and more), our online resources (newspapers, HeritageQuest, GCF LearnFree, etc.), website, social media, and calendar of events. You can even pay fines or bills from the app, link household accounts, search other local libraries, and receive notifications for holds or due dates.

Did we mention how easy it is to use? So easy! (Way better than the old BookMyne app.) It also features improved accessibility for VoiceOver and larger text sizes. So head to the Apple or Google Play Stores, install the free app, log in with your FDL library card, and enjoy a whole new way to explore your library!

Beth Weimer2020-08-04T12:03:22-05:00August 4th, 2020|

FDL Reopening: Hours & Guidelines

The library reopens Monday, July 6, with new hours, express services, and public safety guidelines. Patrons are welcome to quickly select and check out materials and to use computers and study rooms for shortened periods. The following guidelines are designed to reduce risks for our staff and patrons as much as possible. We regret that this includes discouraging our patrons from extended visits. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Genna Buhr, Director.

New Service Hours

Monday, Wednesday, Friday
10am-1pm & 2-6pm

Tuesday & Thursday
12-4pm & 5-8pm

Saturday
9am-1pm

Special Access for High-Risk Individuals

Thursday 10:30-11:30am by Appointment

Please call by 6pm Wednesday to make your appointment.

Preventive Measures

Face Masks — All patrons over the age of 2 are required to wear masks covering their nose and mouth at all times. Disposable masks will be provided at the welcome table to those who arrive without one. If you are not able to wear a mask in the library, please continue to use the drive-up window or Atrium pickup. All staff also are required to wear masks.

Protective Shields — Plexiglas barriers have been added to the service desks and computer stations.

Increased Cleaning — Computers, equipment, touch screens, counters, and surfaces are disinfected after each closing. The library is deep-cleaned nightly. Patrons are encouraged to wash hands before entering and use hand sanitizing stations throughout the library.

Returned Items — All returned materials are quarantined for 3 days before they are checked in or put back into circulation. We will not charge overdue fees for items that are delayed due to quarantine.

Courtesy — Please do not come to the library if you have symptoms associated with COVID-19 or if you have recently been exposed to someone who may have COVID-19.

Social Distancing

Limited Capacity — Current local health guidelines limit the number of people who can be in the library at one time. Patrons may be asked to wait in the Atrium or return at another time if capacity limit is reached.

The Six Feet Rule — Visitors are asked to maintain at least a six-foot distance from others in the library (except from those in their own party). Waiting spots are marked on the floors to help you maintain your distance.

Furniture — We have removed most furniture to maintain social distancing and to discourage extended visits. Please do not rearrange any furniture.

Computers

Some public access computers have been disabled to maintain social distancing. Computers are available by reservation for 45-minute periods, and an express station is available for 15-minute periods. Patrons are limited to using computers once per day, no more than twice per week. Reservations can be made by calling 309-699-3917 or through chat on the library’s website. A disinfecting wipe will be provided to each patron to clean the keyboard and mouse before use.

WiFi

Patrons needing to sit and use WiFi to work or study are encouraged to reserve a study room. FDL WiFi is also accessible from the parking lot and Reading Garden.

Study Rooms

Study rooms are available by reservation for 45-minute periods, 2 times per week per patron. Reservations can be made by calling 309-699-3917 or through chat on the library’s website. Masks must be worn in study rooms, and rooms will be disinfected after each use.

Restrooms

Restrooms are available in the Atrium while the library restrooms are closed to the public. Restrooms are cleaned nightly.

Other Available Services

Programs — All summer programming will consist of online programs or take-and-make project kits. Patrons can track reading for the Summer Reading Program via the Beanstack app and pick up halfway and completion prizes at service desks or the drive-up window.
Drive-Up Window and Atrium Pickup — Patrons can still place holds through the online catalog, with the RSAcat Mobile app, or by phone and pick up materials from the drive-up window or the Atrium.
Office Equipment — Our scan station, copiers, microfilm, and typewriter will be available to use and will be cleaned after each closing.
Ask a Librarian — Library staff are available to answer your questions during service hours at service desks or via phone, email, or live chat.
Notary Public — We will offer Notary Public services by appointment for up to 3 documents.
Interlibrary Loan — Patrons will also be able to request and receive items from other RSACat libraries. Because of increased safety measures, delivery may be delayed.
Mobile Printing — Mobile printing is available to be picked up at the Information Desk, drive-up window, or in the Atrium.
Drop Boxes — The drive-up drop box is available 24/7, and the Atrium and indoor drop boxes are available during service hours.
Little Free Library — Items that can be taken and kept are available for all ages in the Atrium and the Reading Garden.

Temporarily Unavailable Services

Coffee Corner
Toys & Play Area
Video Games
Local History Room
Newspapers & Magazines (magazines can still be checked out)
Board Games (can still be checked out but not played in library)
Book Sale
Book Donations
In-Person Programs
Water Fountains

We greatly appreciate your patience and compliance with all the new rules and safety precautions. Please call 309-697-3917 to make reservations and appointments or to ask questions about this phase of library service.

Beth Weimer2020-07-23T11:55:18-05:00June 30th, 2020|

Library Reopening July 6

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

Beth Weimer2020-06-24T11:58:35-05:00June 24th, 2020|

Services Available June 1

Starting Monday, June 1, patrons will be able to pick up FDL materials through the drive-up window (or in the Atrium for walk-ups). Patrons can place holds through our online catalog at fondulaclibrary.org, through the RSAcat Mobile app, or by contacting staff. Staff will be available to answer your questions, place holds, assist with accounts, and help access our digital collection via phone, email, and live chat during service hours. Mobile printing will also be available to be picked up at the drive-up window or in the Atrium. The drop box will also be open, with an additional drop box available in the Atrium.

New Service Hours Starting June 1

M, T, Th, F 10am – 6pm

Wednesday 12pm – 8pm

Saturday 9am – 1pm

After items are placed on hold, you’ll be notified by phone or email when your items are ready and will have 7 days to pick up those items.
Patrons may pick up items only once every 7 days (due to limited availability of materials).
Only FDL materials will be available at this time (no items from other libraries or ILL requests).
Patrons may check out half the regular quantity of items at a time (25 books, 5 DVDs, etc.) due to the limited availability of materials.
Please request all materials in advance by placing a hold; staff cannot take requests for additional materials at pickup.
All FDL materials that normally circulate, such as games, equipment, kits, etc. will be available to check out.
Once returned, all items will be quarantined for 7 days, so it may take 7-10 days for items to be removed from your card.
All previously checked out materials are due on June 30th. Materials checked out after June 1st will resume their regular lending periods (3 weeks for books, 1 week for DVDs, etc.).
Fines accrued before the library closed on March 16th are still due, but no new fines will be charged until further notice.

Please note the library building will still be closed to the public and no in-person programs will be held until further notice. Readers of all ages are invited to participate in Dig Deeper, our online summer reading program, and to follow the library on social media for updates and online programs and activities. We appreciate your patience and support and look forward to see you at the drive-up window!

Beth Weimer2020-05-26T12:06:58-05:00May 26th, 2020|

Curbside Return

FDL will start collecting checked-out materials on a limited basis during the next two weeks. Please note the drop boxes will NOT be open.

Curbside return service will be available:

Tuesday • May 19 & May 26 • 4-7pm

Thursday • May 21 & May 28 • 10am – 1pm

Saturday • May 23 & May 30 • 9am – 12pm

You will be asked to pull through the drive-up window lane to the delivery door. You will need to exit your vehicle to return items to the designated plastic bins. All materials will be quarantined for a minimum of seven days and then will be removed from your account following quarantine (approximately 7-10 days). This no-contact process ensures staff will not have to handle materials until after the recommended 7-day quarantine period.

The due date for all materials is still June 30th, so those who wish to hold on to their items longer may do so without incurring fines.

We appreciate your patience with this process! Patrons currently have more than 10,000 items checked out, so this will help the library prepare to start circulating materials again through the drive-up window in a few weeks. (Stay tuned for announcements!)

Please call staff at 309-205-5855 Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., if you have questions or concerns.

Beth Weimer2020-05-15T13:36:20-05:00May 15th, 2020|