Hamilton Public Library reopening all branches

Almost all Hamilton Public Library branches will be open as of Thursday at 11 a.m.

In a release, HPL says branches will be open for browsing, pickup, computer access and use of equipment like printers, scanners, fax machines and its Makerspace (the latter two are only available at Central Library).

The new branch hours are from Tuesday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hours on Friday and Saturday are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Turner Park branch opens for browsing and computer use on Aug. 4.

"We're moving to Phase 3 because of the collective work of people in our community. We're excited to welcome back all Hamilton Public Library members. All branches have increased cleaning and new services," Paul Takala, CEO and chief librarian said in an email.

There are also some new rules for people who want to use the library.

• All visitors must have a library card to ensure accurate contact tracing.
• Members visiting a branch are requested to wear masks and HPL will provide a free mask for members needing one.
• Members and staff are expected to practice physical distancing.

The libraries also have more cleaning protocols in place. All staff will wear PPE and the buildings' max capacities are reduced. Furniture and computers are spaced to accommodate physical distancing while staff service desks have Plexiglas.

All borrowed items should be returned to book drops and will be quarantined for 72 hours before being checked in.

Bookmobile and Visiting Library Service returns in the Fall.