The current state of emergency has forced us all to learn to live a new way. Instead of eating out we started ordering in or cooking at home. Instead of going to gyms we took virtual classes or exercised at home. Instead of meeting up with friends in person we met up with them on Zoom. Instead of receiving patrons in the Library the Oakland Park Library worked to create online content that patrons could enjoy. And now, in an effort to offer even more, the Oakland Park library is helping patrons who prefer a book in the hand instead of two on the Kindle by offering curbside pick-up of library materials.
See a list of digital offerings by clicking here.
Ethel M. Gordon Library Offers Curbside Pick-Up
Even though the Library was able to offer digital resources, according to Danielle Giguere, the Library manager, they wanted to offer curbside pick-ups since the closures began in Mid-March. However, they did not immediately do so because of concerns over the staff’s and patron’s safety. Once Phase 1 re-opening was announced they began to work on a plan to make curbside pick-up a reality.
The plan was set in motion on Thursday May 21 when the first curbside pick-ups began.
The First Day of Curbside Pick-Up
Giguere shared with Living in Oakland Park that before the program began they already had a cart full of materials that had been requested prior to closure. Five patrons have already come by to pick-up their materials and last night Giguere received more requests for materials. Giguere notes:
“I would say it’s been a success so far and our patrons seem to be very happy to have a physical connection to the library again.”
How It Works
Patrons that would like to request library materials must have an Oakland Park Library card in good standing. To request materials patrons should call the library, Monday through Friday from 8am-5pm at 954-630-4370 or send an e-mail to danielleg@oaklandparkfl.gov to request materials. The staff will prepare the materials in 24 hours or the next business day. When the materials are ready for pick-up the staff will contact patrons.
Patrons are asked can either knock on front door or call the when they arrive. The Library is asking that patrons stand at least 6 feet away from the door while the staff places the materials outside.
Enjoy your library materials and don’t forget to thank the hardworking staff for all they do!
