The libraries in Haines and Skagway are both open, but with some changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Entrance is reservation only at the Skagway library. Masks are encouraged. Staff wear masks. Hand sanitizer is available. Social distancing is in place: computers are placed at a social distance and there are social distancing markers on the floor for reference. Plexiglass protects patrons and staff at the reference desk. And all returned materials are quarantine and sanitized before they go back into circulation.
Library director Jennifer Sasselli says it’s an effort to maintain access for all patrons throughout the pandemic.
“It takes some extra time but it’s worth it,” she said.
“We want to make sure everybody is accommodated and can get the service they want. People who are high risk or taking extra precautions, we want to be able to accommodate those folks as well.”
Patrons can’t browse books like usual, but Skagway librarians are offering “personal librarian service: tell them your interests and they’ll pick some selections for you to try. Patrons can also window shop the literary displays in the library windows. Curbside service is available by calling 983-BOOK (2665) or email library@skagway.org. Books can also be selected through the online reservation system.
The Skagway Public Library is open by appointment only, Wednesday through Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 1p.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. The WiFi is accessible from outside the library from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
The Haines Borough Public Library is open—no appointment necessary. The stacks are open, but aisles are one way traffic only. The library asks that patrons wear masks and practice social distancing.
Director Carolann Goolsby says Haines can still read together with the “Together Haines Reads a Million” program. Haines residents log their pages and report them to the library online, in person or by phone.
“Put your pages in and every time we reach 100,000 we draw for a local business gift certificate. We are almost at half a million and we started on June 1st! So that has been an amazing initiative for us and we’re so happy that so many people are participating,” Goolsby said.
The library is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is now closed on Fridays due to budget restrictions. Curbside service is available by request. Patrons may call 766-6420 or email frontdesk@haineslibrary.org.
