Library Increasing Public Access Hours

Library Increasing Public Access Hours

During the ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, the Hastings Memorial Library has made the health and safety of library staff and our patrons our top priority.  Effective Monday, October 19, the library will be open to the public Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 1 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM, and Saturday mornings from 9 AM- 12 PM.  We will be closed with no services available on Fridays.  Staff will be on site each weekday until 5:30 PM cleaning and sanitizing high traffic areas after the library closes to the public.

As we extend the hours we are open to the public, we ask that you help us stay safe and stay open by abiding by the following restrictions and guidelines:

  • Visits should be kept to 30 minutes per day.
  • Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a parent or other adult (18 or over) at all times.
  • Social distancing of six feet or more is encouraged and recommended whenever possible.
  • Hand sanitizer is available upon entry and is required. Staff will wear masks while patrons are in the building.  Use of face masks by patrons is strongly encouraged.  Masks are available at the door. 

Two public computers are available for use by appointment.  There will be a 30 minute time limit, as well as a 30 minute wait between appointments to allow staff to properly sanitize each station between usage.  In order to maintain social distancing recommendations, staff will be unable to provide direct computer assistance at this time. 

Patrons are required to return all items via the outdoor book drop to the left of the front door.  Items are checked in twice weekly and quarantined for at least 72 hours before returning to circulation.  Any fines that accrue during the quarantine period will be automatically waived.

Our Curbside Checkout and Homebound Delivery services will continue.  Please call or email the library during the hours listed above to submit your requests. 

If you are running a fever or feeling at all ill, please stay home or take advantage of our Curbside Checkout service.   

Our online presence including our ebook, downloadable audiobook, and downloadable magazine collections remain available.  These can be accessed by visiting our website at http://libraries.ne.gov/grant

These guidelines and restrictions are fluid and, therefore, subject to change at any time.  The Library Board of Trustees will closely monitor the guidelines and recommendations set forth by Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department, the City of Grant, and Perkins County Schools when considering any changes to the above policies and procedures.  Thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support. 

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