Friday, May 29, 2020
Dear Troy Public Library Patrons,
I wanted to provide an update as to the status of operations at Troy Public Library. In accordance with Executive Order 2020-100 which prohibited Michigan libraries from reopening to the public, as well as the extension of the Stay at Home order, TPL will remain closed through June 12th. We are waiting on the Governor’s Office to provide direction as to when public libraries may resume service in any form. In the meantime, please continue to take advantage of TPL 24/7 digital services.
In preparation for reopening, the library staff is working with City of Troy staff to create plans and policies to ensure the safety of the employees and the public. This is our highest priority.
Current plans include a phased reopening, based first and foremost on any directive from the Governor’s office and/or the Oakland County Health Department. Staffing also plays a role as all staff are required to remain socially distant. This limits how many people we can have at one time in any given work area of the Library.
TPL’s first phase will be the acceptance of returns of library materials. There are currently 40,000 items checked out from the TPL. Our plan is to accept returns via the outside (not drive up) dropboxes that are attached to the library, near the front entrance. All returned materials will be quarantined for 72 hours before they are checked in.
Contactless curbside pickup of holds is the second phase. While there is not yet an official date when this will begin, we will publish a timeline when this information is available.
At some future date, we will reopen the Library to the public, but it is impossible to attach a date to that yet. Much depends on direction from the Governor and the Oakland County Health Department, including building capacity and number of people allowed to gather in one spot. We are in the process of updating the Library’s physical space to accommodate social distancing for staff workstations and for patrons, as well as intensive safety protocols.
TPL’s Summer Library Program begins on June 13; this year’s program will be an online program. Please stay tuned to TPL’s website, eNewsletter and social media for updates about registration and for more information about the program.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding in this ever-changing situation. Please know that TPL staff and I are committed to your safety; to bringing you top-of-the-line services and resources; and to providing the highest level of service, in all forms.
Please stay tuned for updates, and stay safe and well.
With best wishes,
Cathy Russ
