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Staying Safe Together – COVID-19 Response and Updates

group of people in masks

Is the Library open?

Yes. All Akron-Summit County Public Library locations are open. Visit our list of locations for branch-specific hours.  We will post any future COVID-related closures on this page and social media.

Are customers required to wear masks?

Non-vaccinated customers are strongly encouraged to wear masks to protect themselves and others. (Single-use masks are available at our service desks.) Some staff will choose to remain masked. All staff will wear a mask when assisting a masked customer where a Plexiglas barrier is not available.

For customers who are unable to visit in person, we continue to offer many service options that make library use possible:

  • Visit the Library’s website at akronlibrary.org to access our online collection, research tools, and learning resources.
  • Take part in our new services, Your Next 5 Reads and Same-Day Select, for personalized materials selection.
  • Retrieve your requested items using our Outside Pick-Up Service.
  • Call or e-mail your local Library location for reference services. We’re ready to answer your questions. Detailed, one-on-one personalized reference assistance is available through Book A Librarian.
  • Ask us about document delivery by fax, e-mail, or Outside Pick-Up Service, and learn how you can print documents from your device for pick-up at the Library.
  • Remember—free Wi-Fi is available outside Library buildings.
  • Find out if you qualify for our Library Express Delivery Service (LEDS). Call 330-643-9060.

Are COVID-related safety measures still in place at the Library?

In every location, you will see:

  • Service desk shields
  • Physical distancing reminders and one-way aisles
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Plexiglas shields at some public-use tables
  • Public-use computers--some distanced, some with Plexiglas shields
  • Regularly scheduled sanitizing activity

Is Outside Pick-Up Service available?

Yes. The Library offers Outside Pick-Up Service appointments for holds at all locations, including Main Library. Appointments are not needed for items held at Main Library’s Drive-up Window. Outside Pick-Up appointments should only be scheduled after you have been notified that your holds are ready for pick-up. Document delivery, items sent from your device to a Library printer, is also available via Outside Pick-Up Service.

Can I apply for a library card online?

Yes. Adults can apply for a card online and start using the Library’s digital resources almost immediately. We do not offer an online application for ages 17 and under.

Are returned items quarantined?

The Library no longer quarantines items. The most recent public health information confirms that we no longer need to be concerned about virus transmission via returned materials.

When will in-person events resume?

In-person events will begin in the month of June. Virtual events will also continue. View our online calendar for information.

When will meeting room reservations resume?

Meeting room reservations have resumed, with availability beginning July 6. Library cardholders can continue to set up and run their own virtual meeting room with Zoom and support from Library staff.

Are public computers and Wi-Fi available?

Yes.

Are you offering COVID-19 test kits?

The Akron-Summit County Public Library is joining with public libraries throughout Ohio in distributing free COVID-19 test kits while supplies last. Provided by the Ohio Department of Health, the 15-minute Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Test is for at-home COVID-19 testing only, in conjunction with a free telehealth session provided by eMed proctors. While the test is free of charge, a smartphone or computer, internet access, a microphone, and a webcam are needed. You can read more about test kit distribution on our blog.

Are you accepting book donations?

Yes, although some Library locations may not currently have available storage space. Please check with your local library before making your donation.

Where can I find reliable information about COVID-19?

For the latest information about the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the Library recommends these reliable online resources:
Help with Local COVID-19 Resources
Summit County Public Health
Ohio Department of Health
US Center for Disease Control
World Health Organization
Coronavirus Research Database
US Government Response to COVID-19

Get Creative Again in TechZone

This summer the TechZone will return to its regular service model. Patrons will once again able to take advantage of the hands-on, do-it-yourself machines available in Main Library’s makerspace, TechZone. Appointments are opening up soon! Call the TechZone at 330.643.9145 or visit www.akronlibrary.org/tz for the latest updates.