Washington Public Library remains virtual only until May 15

WASHINGTON - The Washington Public Library will continue to be a 'virtual only” library until May 15, but staff have decided to move forward with the summer reading program, according to a statement.

Director Bryna Walker said in a statement the library will remain closed to the public until at least May 15, per the governor's proclamation. However, registration for the summer reading program for preschool-fifth grade students has begun and will continue until May 30. The program will run June 1-30.

'(The) summer reading will be through virtual programming this year on our Facebook and Zoom Room with Miss Jo (Widmer) and Miss Jenisa (Harris). We are hoping by June that we can have curbside pickup be a part of summer reading which will include take home STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activity bags,” the statement reads.

Once the library is given permission to reopen, the first phase will be to provide curbside service, the statement reads. 'When this service begins you will be able to request books from our catalog at www.washington.lib.ia.us. Curbside service enables you to drive up to the library and we will deliver the books to your car with gloves and a mask on,” it says.

Anyone with books to return may do so at the book drop off in front of the library. Until the doors can be opened safely, staff will be anxiously waiting, according to the statement.

'We look forward to our small steps of opening the library safely. We miss our patrons, but are doing our part in keeping our community safe while this pandemic ensues,” the statement reads.

To sign up for the summer reading program or for more information the library can be reached at: 319-653-2726.