Abbot Library Adds Online Services, Hopes For October Opening

MARBLEHEAD, MA — A "gradual and selective" reopening process could have the Abbot Public Library offering some in-person services in the second half of October.

The Marblehead library has been offering curbside delivery for the past three months, and recently added an online reservation system, through a money raised by the Friends of Abbot Library.

"Looking ahead, health and safety priorities for both patrons and staff, in the new world of COVID-19, will continue to guide all our decisions regarding the introduction of in-building services," the library posted in a letter to the community. "We envision this process as gradual and selective, to include browsing of newly acquired materials, access to computers and printers, and availability of copiers — all by individual appointment.

"We are eager to open our doors to you and are working hard to prepare our spaces and design procedures to safely offer these services, while continuing our curbside service in a more sheltered setting, as the weather turns cooler."

Library officials said they hope to have the building open for some in-building services by the second half of October.

"The actual date will be largely dependent upon the timetable for two major projects being undertaken to protect the health of patrons and staff," the letter said. "One project is the fabrication and installation of plexiglass enclosures for all four of our public service areas. The second is the thorough cleaning of the library's air circulation duct system, which will significantly improve both air flow and air quality."

A survey to determine the best use of limited resources can be found here.

"We sincerely thank you for your patience and support as we reshape our services to meet your needs in this unprecedented time," officials said.

This article originally appeared on the Marblehead Patch