Madison Public Library Board Delays Decision to Expand In-Person Library Service until May 6 Board Meeting

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On April 1, 2021, the Madison Public Library Board voted to delay the decision to open Madison’s public libraries for expanded in-person service until the May 6 Library Board meeting, where the Board will consider an updated plan and timeline.

The expanded in-person service plan, which would have begun April 19, included opening libraries for in-person browsing, self-pickup of holds, and access to basic desk services.

“Libraries are an important part of our community, providing free and equitable access to resources and experiences.  Our staff have worked hard to uphold that mission during the pandemic, and I believe it is important to safely expand our in-person service offering as soon as we are able,” said Greg Mickells, Library Director.  

“After careful consideration, most of our members felt it was important to take the time to learn more details about the library’s plans for expanding service,” said Eve Galanter, Library Board president. “Moving this discussion to May will allow for more library staff to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, which was a concern voiced by some staff.  We are looking forward considering an updated plan and timeline in May.”

Currently available library services include:

Curbside pickup service:
Customers can borrow library materials through the curbside pickup service.  Customers can place holds online at www.linkcat.info or call the library at 608-266-6300 to ask staff to place holds.  When customers are notified that their holds are available for pickup, they can call their pickup library to schedule an appointment or schedule online.  For hours and details, visit madpl.org/curbside

Library computer service:
Customers can call the centralized library service line at 608-266-6300 to schedule an 1-hour appointment to use computers at one of eight libraries (no computer service at Monroe Street Library). Walk-up appointments are also available on a first-come first-served basis. For hours and details, visit madpl.org/computers

Other library services:
To inquire about or connect to all other library services, customers can call the centralized library service line at 608-266-6300.  For more details, visit madpl.org/ask

More information
Currently Available Library Services madpl.org/coronavirus
For a list of all library hours and locations, visit madpl.org/locations
For downloadable audiobooks and ebooks, visit madpl.org/ebooks

About Madison Public Library
Madison Public Library’s tradition of promoting education, literacy and community involvement has enriched the City of Madison for more than 145 years.  Visit the library online at www.madisonpubliclibrary.org, madisonpubliclibrary on Facebook, @madisonlibrary on Twitter, or @madisonpubliclibrary on Instagram.

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