Frequently Asked Questions
What are you doing to protect the safety of patrons and library staff?
The contactless curbside pickup model we are using provides maximum social distancing for the safety of our patrons and our staff.
Additionally:
- All physical materials are quarantined for 72 hours when returned.
- All patrons, including children aged 5 and up, are required to wear a mask to protect themselves and library staff.
- Only individuals and family units are allowed in the library at this time. To foster social distancing, we cannot accommodate groups.
- We perform regular disinfecting of surfaces.
- Staff and patrons are protected by clear safety barriers at all service desks.
- Staff wear masks and wash hands often when handling materials.
Are you sanitizing library materials?
The Library is closely monitoring the global coronavirus pandemic. The health and safety of the library staff, patrons and our community are of utmost importance. The procedures outlined below are based on the current research available from the medical and scientific communities regarding COVID-19. We are relying on the expert opinions of the medical profession, local and state health officials and the Center for Disease Control on the best ways to manage the pandemic in terms of library services and collections. As our understanding of the virus evolves, the Bud Werner Library will monitor and adjust procedures accordingly.
Quarantine – Time is the Best Disinfectant
The best practice at this time is to quarantine items past the viability of the virus. Using an abundance of caution, the Library quarantines items returned in the book drop for a minimum of 72 hours. It is deemed the safest and most effective way to disinfect them after handling by staff or patrons.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on March 17, 2020 indicated that COVID-19 will persist on cardboard surfaces for 24 hours and on plastic surfaces for up to 72 hours. Based on this research, an appropriate quarantine time for paper or plain cardboard products would be a minimum of 24 hours, while an appropriate quarantine time for books covered in polyester (e.g. Mylar) or other plastics, as well as plastic-based materials such as CD’s and DVD’s, is 72 hours.
Staff and Community Safety
Staff wear gloves and face masks when moving items into quarantine. They remove the gloves immediately afterwards so as not to accidentally touch anything else (like door handles). After removing the gloves, staff wash their hands for 20 seconds, following CDC guidelines.
Additional Resources
- Berendes, D. & Rasberry, C. (2020) Mitigating COVID-19 When Managing Paper-Based, Circulating, and Other Types of Collections [Webinar]. National Institute of Library and Museum Sciences in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April 1, 2020.
- Kampf, D. Todt, S. Pfaender, and E. Steinmann. (2020). Persistence of Coronaviruses on Inanimate Surfaces and their Inactivation with Biocidal Agents, Journal of Hospital Infection. V104, #3, March 1, 2020, p 246-251. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhin.2020.01.022
- Van Doremalen,N., Morris, D. H., Holbrook, M. G., et. al. (2020) Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1. The New England Journal of Medicine. March 17, 2020. https://doi.org/ 10.1056/NEJMc2004973
- Mandavilli, A. (2020, March 17). How Long Will COVID-19 Live on Surfaces or in the Air Around You?, The New York Times, March 18, 2020, Section A, Page 10; updated April 1, 2020.
- Parker-Pope, T. (2020). Is the Virus on My Clothes? My Shoes? My Hair? My Newspaper?. The New York Times, Ask Well, April 17, 2020, updated April 18,2020.
I need help downloading an ebook, audiobook, video, magazine or music.
We are delighted to offer the option to download magazines, books, audiobooks, comics, movies, documentaries and TV programs from the convenience of home. If you need help getting these materials onto your phone or device, email or call John Major, Reference Librarian, at jmajor@steamboatlibrary.org, 970-367-4905.
Can I reserve a meeting room or Library Hall?
Until restrictions on public gatherings are lifted, we are unable to accept reservations for use of our meeting rooms or Library Hall. Our staff, however, are available to answer any questions.
How are you conducting curbside pickup.
We have an entire page and FAQ devoted exclusively to our curbside service. If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Michelle Dover at mdover@steamboatlibrary.org.
What materials are available for curbside pickup?
All materials featured in our catalog are available for curbside pickup: books, DVDs, music, etc.
Can I request items from other libraries?
Yes, the courier service that the library uses has resumed operations. You may, therefore, borrow any materials featured in our catalog.
Can I access the wifi and use my personal computer inside the library?
Yes, provided there are designated seating or study areas available on the 2nd floor.
Since we have limited the amount of available study areas in an effort to encourage a 'Walkthrough Library' environment, we are unable to accommodate personal or public computer use over 2 consecutive hours. You are always welcome, however, to use our wifi outside the building for as long as necessary.
How do I return materials?
Please use the library's book drops either at the main door via Lincoln Ave, or in the wall near the Yampa River entrance. The City Market book drop is closed at this time.
To avoid cross-contamination of materials while using curbside pickup, please do not place items on delivery carts or tables.
Can I get books on a certain topic for a distance-learning or homeschool project?
Yes, you can use the Teacher Request form to ask the Children's Staff to assemble a number of materials on a certain topic for you or your student.
Can I donate books at this time?
No, we ask you to please wait. Space within our facility is limited and other factors that go into the management of our donations have been suspended due to COVID-19.
Can I get something printed, scanned, or faxed without entering the library?
Absolutely! Patrons looking to print, scan, or fax documents, register for the census, or are interested in our digital collections may call the Reference Desk (970-879-0240 ext. 331) to request curbside Reference services.
You may also send your print request in advance of visiting the library. Send your document (.PDF, .DOCX, .CSV, etc.) as an attachment to budref@steamboatlibrary.org. Please include your name, phone number and email address. Black and white printing only at $0.10 per page.