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DeKalb County Library System Re-Opening Guidelines
Kathy Hendrixson


The DeKalb County Libraries will re-open to the public on Monday, September 28th by appointment only. There will be safety guidelines that are to be followed by the library and the public as mandated by the CDC, State and Federal Government on the COVID-19 Pandemic. These guidelines are being implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of the community and our library staff and are subject to change depending upon the current health situation and regulations.  We want to work with the public in providing as many services as possible in a safe and welcoming environment.  This is a list of the guidelines that have to be followed in order for the libraries to re-open to the public.

The public can only enter Justin Potter Library from the side door next to the City Hall for their appointment.  The front door is for Curb Side service only.

The patron will need to call and schedule an appointment time to enter the library. The appropriate amount of time will be allotted for their visit depending on the service that the patron requires.

The computer usage is limited to a one hour session per day.  The first priority will be for those needing to apply for jobs, school work, census and unemployment sign up.  There will only be two computers available for use at this time in order to keep social distancing. The computer keyboard and mouse will be cleaned between patron visits.  One on one assistance is not available during this time. Wi-Fi is available outside the building 24/7.

Patrons will have an allotted amount of time to check out books and movies. There will be a limited number of people allowed in the library at one time.   This way we can accommodate as many people as possible each day in a safe environment.   All returned items need to be placed in the outside book drop before you enter the library.  We will not accept returned items inside the library. Returned items will be quarantined for 72 hours before being checked out again.

Please help keep everyone inside safe by wearing a mask, having your temperature taken and honor social distancing guidelines when you enter the library. There will be hand sanitizer available for use by the door. Please stay home if you are ill or running a fever.

We will continue to provide curbside service with copying, printing, faxing, book and movie pick up to those who are not able to meet these safety guidelines or that are concerned about entering the library.  There may be parts of the library that have limited access due to the book sale.

Justin Potter Library’s virtual and by appointment only book sale begins on September 28th.  There will be guidelines in place that must be followed in order for the public do the in person book sale.  This is to ensure the safety of the patrons and the staff.

We have missed everyone and look forward to welcoming our patrons back into the library. The staff and library board appreciates the public’s understanding and co-operation during this stage of the libraries re-opening process. For further information call Justin Potter Library at 615-597-4359 or Alexandria Library at 615-529-4124, visit us on Facebook or our website at www.dekalblibraries.net.