The King County Library System (KCLS) will begin rolling out in-building services on Wednesday, March 3 at six locations, including downtown Kent, 212 Second Ave. N.
Residents may browse collections, use computers, access Wi-Fi, copiers and printers, and get socially-distanced help from KCLS staff inside the libraries.
Library officials decided to open the sites following Gov. Jay Inslee’s Healthy Washington—Roadmap to Recovery plan and Safe Start guidelines. The inside of libraries have been closed due to COVID-19, although curbside services are available at some sites.
To start, Kent, Tukwila and Woodmont (Des Moines/Kent border) libraries will be open for in-building service, while Fall City, Muckleshoot and Skykomish libraries will offer the hybrid model of both curbside and in-building services.
Services and hours of operation will vary by location. Call the Kent location at 253-859-3330.
KCLS took a variety of factors into consideration when determining which libraries to reopen first, from service area size to individual community needs, according to a KCLS news release. Both large and small service areas are included in the first round, as well as libraries that serve remote communities, where the need for public computer access is especially high. KCLS will reopen additional libraries on a gradual schedule.
KCLS’ physical spaces and in-building services have been modified to keep patrons and staff safe. Residents will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis, and staff will ensure that occupancy levels do not exceed 25% of building capacity. Masks will be required for entry, and libraries will be open for one hour at a time, followed by an hour of cleaning.
“The health and safety of staff and visitors remains our top priority as we take the next step in reopening,” KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum said. “While KCLS continues to serve our communities both online and in person, we have been carefully planning for your return into library buildings, and we are looking forward to welcoming you back.”
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