Library

Libraries remain vital community resources

By Julia Swerdin

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, public libraries were required to close in order to prevent the spread of the virus. The Lynbrook Public Library, at 56 Eldert St., closed its doors to the public in March 2020. During the time of its closure, the library’s virtual collections including eBooks, downloadable audio and magazines were made available. Craft ideas and programmed storytimes were additionally accessible through the library’s Facebook and Youtube accounts.

The library has returned to more normal operations ervice, enabling patrons to browse in-person and participate in numerous events while also still having the option to explore the library’s offerings virtually.

The library lost a longtime and dedicated employee when librarian Dorothy Perrich retired this past June. after 64 years of service there.

“She’s very sweet,” library Director Robyn Gilloon said. “Very lovable, very dedicated and interesting to talk to with all the history she knows about Lynbrook and the library. She saw many things, and was my go-to person as far as Lynbrook or library history.”

The East Rockaway Public Library, at 477 Atlantic Ave., has also seen a return to more normal activities after having to close and readjust at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Similarly to the Lynbrook Library, East Rockaway offered curbside pickup of books, CDs, and DVDs available for loan while the building was closed last year. A wide selection of e-books and e-magazines were also made available on the library’s website.

While the library has returned to welcoming in-person visitors, all patrons who are not fully vaccinated and all children must wear masks.

Several book clubs are offered for varying age groups this summer. The library also hosts a “build your job skills, fix your resume” online workshop with resources for additional tutoring. The library has crafts-to-go, reading incentives and virtual storytimes. The Teen Summer Reading Challenge allows teens to stay well-informed and well-read, even during summer vacation. The summer reading program includes tickets to a raffle for teens who read up to 200 minutes, which they can then cash in for a prize.

Those who are looking for something to read can check out the library’s blogs at eastrockawaylibrary.blogspot.com, which features adult and children’s books. For books geared toward teenagers, visit unseenteen.blogspot.com.