BENTONVILLE, Ark. – Bentonville Public Library (BPL) reopened to the public on Tuesday, June 9, 2020, with limited hours and services.
During the first phase of reopening, the library is open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The library is open for “transactional” services only such as returns, checkouts and computer use.
Several new protocols are being followed by staff and patrons and 6-foot social distancing will be practiced. Important information to know about Bentonville Public Library’s reopening:
- Face masks or coverings will be required for all patrons ages ten and up to enter, and while inside the facility.
- Library will regulate entry for capacity limits. During the first phase of reopening, only 50 people will be allowed inside the building at any given time.
- Due to the limited capacity, time limits for use of the facility will be imposed to fairly provide the most patrons with equal access to the library. Initially, a 30-minute time limit is planned.
- Patrons will be required to register outside the front door by showing their library card. Those who do not have a card can provide their name and contact information. The registration process allows for contact tracing should it be necessary.
- Certain areas of the library, and some collections, are closed.
- Children under the age of 10 must be with caregivers at all times.
Patrons are encouraged to continue using Self-Service Pickup & Returns on the front veranda, available Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The drive-thru book drop and the book drop at the Bentonville Community Center will remain closed.
Patrons are encouraged to use digital services, including online registration for new library cards, summer reading club signup and access to hundreds of resources online through the library’s website and digital apps. Visit www.bentonvillelibrary.org to see a full list of offerings.
Bentonville Public Library closed to the public on March 16 due to COVID-19. During this time, essential staff has worked to serve patrons virtually, continue internal operations and provide additional online resources. BPL Librarians developed a “COVID-19 Procedure Manual” which is considered a best practice for our local situation. The plan was endorsed by the Library Advisory Board on May 6 and includes new protocols and limited re-opening plans for patrons.
As additional services are reinstated according to the approved plan, the library will communicate to the public through their website, social media, emails, and media releases with changes and information as it becomes available.
For more information, please visit Bentonville Public Library at www.bentonvillelibrary.org or email us at library@bentonvillear.com.