Curbside pickup service launches June 6

Curbside pickup service begins June 6

Although Newmarket Public Library remains closed to the public, this week the library will launch curbside pickup service on Saturday, June 6. The provincial government gave the go ahead for libraries to begin curbside service as of May 19. We have taken time to implement measures to ensure that the service can be launched while respecting all public health guidelines for community and staff safety amid the COVID-19 crisis.

Curbside pickup will be available on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The following are the steps required to take advantage of the service:

1. Go to www.newmarketpl.ca, select an item from the library’s catalogue and place it on hold. .
2. If you need assistance related to curbside pickup, or don’t have specific items in mind, contact the library and leave a message at 905-953-5110, text 905-769-0433 or e-mail npl@newmarketpl.ca. On pickup service days staff will be at the library to answer calls in person.
3. After placing a hold, you will receive an email or phone call letting you know that your items are ready for pickup. 
4. Visit the library on curbside pickup service days, line up where indicated to maintain social distancing of 2 metres, and wait to be called to the door.
5. When it’s your turn, present your library card and staff will retrieve your items and leave them for you at a safe distance.

It’s important to remember that curbside pickup service is only for items already placed on hold. To avoid disappointment, the library is asking people not line up and request items at the door. Due to safety concerns, only a small number of staff will be present and they will only have time to process on hold items.

Items are checked out by staff prior to curbside pickup days. Due dates have been extended and there are no fines being charged for late returns during the library’s closure. However, the library asks that people return items when they have finished with them so that others can enjoy them. All returns can be made using the library’s outside book return, where they will remain for a 72-hour quarantine period before being reshelved.

The library’s curbside pickup service is subject to change depending on government health directives during the current crisis.

While the library remains closed its Online Library provides access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, online courses, streaming music and movies, and much more. During the crisis the library has also been offering online programs via Zoom. Upcoming programs can be found in the Programs and Activities calendar on the homepage of the library’s website www.newmarketpl.ca.