Revisions to Library Holds Pickup Service

In response to the rising COVID-19 numbers in Massachusetts, and Governor Baker’s request for increased safety measures, we have taken steps to provide a new service model which will reduce the amount of physical contact between staff and patrons. We wish things were going in the other direction, but the reality is that what we care about most is the safety of you all, and of our library staff.

Out of an abundance of caution we have taken steps to move towards a more contact free model. We will now be offering pickup of various materials through a window service on each floor.

On the lower level, we will serve children’s patrons and patrons with limited mobility out the window of the Children’s Room, just off the parking lot and to the right of the main door.

On the main floor, we will serve adult patrons out of the window to the right of the main doors. Patrons will be allowed to pickup materials and museum passes on hold at a table just below the window. If you would like to call a few minutes ahead of your arrival time, your materials will be prepared for you in advance – however calling in advance is not required.

  • For pickup of children’s materials or for mobility assistance, come to the window by the Children’s Room entrance. (If calling in advance, please call the Children’s Room at 617-993-2880)
  • For adult and YA materials, come to the window by the main entrance on Concord Avenue. (If calling in advance, please call the Circulation Desk at 617-993-2855)
  • For pickup of print outs and museum passes, call the Reference Desk at 617-993-2870

Pickup hours are as follows:

  • Monday – Thursday 10:00am – 1:00pm & 2:00pm – 6:00pm
  • Friday and Saturday 10:00am – 1:00pm & 2:00pm – 5:00pm

Available virtually: We will continue to offer our digital library from the comfort of your home. Our Reference Librarians will be available via live chat, email, and phone to help you with reference questions during operating hours. We will continue to issue museum passes for those institutions that are open.

In the coming days, we will work to begin a new service allowing patrons the ability to securely email personal documents for printing and pickup. Please keep an eye on our website for this announcement.

While we have had to make these adjustments who hope that this service will be well utilized and provide you a good library experience while the pandemic continues to affect our lives. We will continue to waive library fines for the time being, so if you need any extra day or two with that book, please know that you will not be charged.

More details will be shared as they are finalized.

Kind regards, 

Peter J. Struzziero
Library Director