Library to reopen with reading event
Staff writer
Patrons of Marion City Library will be able to kick off their summer reading Monday when the building reopens to the public.
However, staff members will follow strict guidelines set by the Library Board to keep staff members and visitors safe, said Janet Marler, the library’s director.
“I hope everyone who comes in will take every precaution, so that everyone can be safe,” she said. “Everyone is eager to get back to normal and start enjoying books and summer.”
The library’s online summer reading programs will begin Friday and now include challenges for adults as well as teens.
The theme for the children’s reading program, which will run until July 17, is “Imagine Your Story.” It will focus on fairy tales and nursery rhymes.
Marler said it was important that children “not lose out on reading” this summer.
“I have talked to a lot of kids and they have acted like they missed us,” Marler said. “We miss them.”
Preschool through eighth-grade children can begin reading and track their progress using the library’s ReaderZone app, or pick up a reading log from staff. Prizes will be awarded as readers reach their goals.
Teens and adults can register with ReaderZone and have their names entered into a drawing each time they finish a book.
The library’s staff is planning story walks, scavenger hunts, and other activities that comply with health restrictions, Marler said.
“We still trying to make it exciting and fun for the kids so they will want to participate,” she said.
The library will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Staff shortages mean no evening or weekend hours.
“There is only one person there in the evenings and Saturdays, and that is hard for one person to control,” Marler said. “We will not open because we don’t want to put anyone in danger.”
Visitors will be asked to wash or sanitize their hands when entering the building. Masks are mandatory for everyone older than 2.
Only 10 people will be allowed in the library at one time. Patrons are encouraged to browse for 15 minutes and not linger and will be asked to maintain six feet of social distance.
“Unfortunately, for safety concerns, there will be no toys or train tables for children to play with,” Marler said.
Staff still will offer curbside service to patrons who can reserve items from the library’s card catalog by calling (620) 382-2442.