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Step 2: Branches open to enhanced in-person services on Monday, July 5

OPL_BPO_Comms

Jun 30, 2021

Starting Monday, July 5, 2021, we will reopen to enhanced in-person services. Enhanced services include browsing the shelves, access to more public computers, reading newspapers and magazines, as well as passes to some provincial parks.

Capacity inside branches will be limited, as per provincial regulations, and customers may have to wait outside if the capacity limit is reached inside the branch. Also, given limited seating and capacity, customers will be asked to limit their time reading newspapers and magazines so that others can also enjoy this reintroduced service.

Virtual programming continues. Cardholders can visit our website for more information and to register for summer programs such as Summerland, Teen Staycation and other events to meet all ages and interests. Summer reading kits for those who registered will be available for pickup in branches.

Chromebooks continue to be available for loans of up to three hours and remote printing by request are available via an online form.

We are in the process of modernizing the Library's public computer, printing and photocopying systems. As of June 29, 2021, 22 branches have the new systems installed, with 11 more branches to come. During the transition, computers, printers and photocopiers may function differently or may be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Thirty-one of OPL's 33 branches are now open. Metcalfe Village branch continues to be open on Saturdays to provide contactless services but no public computers are available. Vernon and Fitzroy Harbour branches remain closed until the fall.

Safety measures such as the mandatory wearing of masks (inside the branch and outside while in line) and the need maintain a two-metre physical distance from others remain in effect, to ensure the safety of our customers and employees.

The health and safety of employees and customers remain OPL’s priority. Ottawa Public Library continues to follow direction from the Province of Ontario and guidance from Ottawa Public Health to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

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Comments

Access to: Washrooms

Submitted by Excluded on July 2, 2021 - 11:35pm
Sir / Madam, I am writing on behalf of a senior, in their early 70s, who asked me to find out if the washrooms will be available at the OPL Branches? For this person, their particular need is for the MAIN Branch. (Please be aware, that this person was turned away, from the MAIN Branch, a few weeks ago, and a block later, in public, had a significant embarrassing - number two - "accident".) Pandemic or not, WASHROOMS are ESSENTIAL and nobody should be turned away, especially at the Ottawa PUBLIC Library. Cordially yours, EXCLUDED.

Thank you for your comment.

Submitted by OPL_BPO_Comms on July 7, 2021 - 3:45pm
Thank you for your comment. As of July 5, Ottawa Public Library branches across the City are open for in-person services. This means OPL customers are able to use the bathrooms. At the Main branch, all washrooms are available including the accessibility washroom on the 3rd floor.