At the library: The pandemic trials of 2020

'Happy New Years!” I shouted with a grin on my face. I had just watched the ball drop with glimmering grace in Times Square, rendering the previous year's calendars useless - 2019's calendars. A time that now seems like centuries ago; a time that was free of the consequences of COVID-19. Since then, I'm sure myself and many of you have reflected on that time and concluded how naive we must have been, but if it makes you feel any better, we never could have predicted what the world had in store for us.

Many of us have been struck hard by the effects of the pandemic, but as the year approaches its finale, it may be time to put on our rose-colored glasses and appreciate the good things that have emerged from it. Because of the work of our dedicated staff members, the Washington Public Library has persevered throughout the trials of the pandemic and has hopefully been able to satisfy our patrons along the way.

When we (partially) reopened back in July, we returned with the mindset of operating as safely, but efficiently as possible. With new features at the library such as our text-reminder system, our remote printing device, Printer On, and being able to reserve books online with our new catalog system, separation guidelines have been easier to handle. Contactless curbside pickups have also proven to be a blessing in an era of social distancing, along with those handy-dandy Zoom meetings!

While the journey to get this show on the road wasn't always free of potholes, it has been a breeze due to the patience of our lovely patrons. Words can't describe how thankful we are to be able to provide a source of entertainment and enjoyment in a time that is the dead opposite of entertaining or joyful. Now, we can only hope that quarantine comes to its own finale as soon as possible, because this series has been drawn out for far too long! Until then, make sure to stay safe, wash your hands, and follow guidelines so that we can welcome you all freely into the library once again!