Libraries

Libraries continued offering services amid pandemic

By Visvajit Sriramrajan

Franklin Square and Elmont residents were able to continue accessing library services from the comfort of their homes during the heart of the coronavirus pandemic.

At the Franklin Square Public Library, officials expanded its digital services, developed new virtual programs, subscribed to new databases and offered virtual library cards for new patrons. Additionally, librarians called their loyal patrons to keep them updated about the library and lend an ear during the difficult time. "Even though the physical building was shut down during the pandemic, the Franklin Square Public Library never truly closed," said Nicole Cieslewicz, secretary to the board of trustees.

In June, the library welcomed staff back into the building and started a curbside-pickup program. They then opened the building to patrons at the end of July. "We are offering more and more to the public this summer, such as museum passes and our Summer Reading Club programs for kids, teens and adults," Cieslewicz said, adding, "We have been working hard to make the building a safe and healthy environment for both staff and patrons.”

Elmont Memorial Library officials, meanwhile, have organized several online services, including trivia nights, physical fitness classes and cooking classes. They are also offering residents a digital library card they can use to access audiobooks, digital magazines, test preparation materials, live tutoring services and more.

The library has been open for curbside pickup since June 8, and library personnel have been quarantining all materials for 72 hours after they are returned, resulting in a delay in updating the online library records.

Elmont Memorial Library officials are also working to provide in-person programming, while maintaining social distancing and adhering to government regulations on mask use, according to Philip Harwood, an adult reference librarian. He said the library has opened up study tables, and has about half of the library’s usual workforce in the building.

The Franklin Square Public Library

19 Lincoln Rd., Franklin Square (516) 488-3444

The Elmont Memorial Library

700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont (516) 354-5280

Mondays through Thursdays 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays in September through June – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays in July through August 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays 9:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. Fridays – 9:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.