Public Library branches open for personal services
By Ted Behr
Welcome back Southwest residents! “We’re open for limited in-person services here at the Paschalville branch from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays,” said Branch supervisor Nyia Morrison.
“We are especially excited to have children come in and reacquaint themselves with all the wonderful books we have waiting for them,” said Morrison, whose specialty is library activities for children and youth. “We have a surprise “grab bag” waiting for them to take home as well.”
She was quick to mention the virtual online programs that will be running in the near future which can be accessed through the Paschalville Library link.
“Our able staff is now welcoming readers, computer users, and book seekers in-person – observing the CDC masks and distancing rules, of course,” continued the enthusiastic Morrison who has a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Clarion University. She has been visiting area schools like Penrose to find out from teachers how the library can be of help when schools open again.
“We are scheduled to expand the in-person services from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Fridays beginning on August 23,” she added.
“We’re still here for readers to pick up “contact-less” materials. Neighbors can place “holds” using our online catalog or by calling us at (215) 685-2690. Once you’re notified that your items have arrived, you can pick them up Monday through Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
“During our open-to-the-public, of course, residents can come in and check out items themselves. These hours are subject to change, so we advise calling before you come to the library.
While we’re moving towards providing more in-person services, the public should remember that the pandemic isn’t over. Check out the Free Library’s Coronavirus Updates page for the latest on library services city-wide.
Following Health Department guidance, the library will not be hosting in-person programs or community meetings. The Paschalville staff can’t wait for that to change, but that change will have to consider public health guidelines, not how badly they miss gathering neighbors together for vital community conversations, fostering creative collaborations for kids, and providing free space for community groups to meet, and so much more!
