Concord Library Introduces Curbside Pickup for Library Materials

Beginning June 8, 2020 patrons will be able to reserve books and other materials currently available on Concord Free Public Library (CFPL) shelves for pickup at a designated time on a table outside the Sudbury Road entrance to the Main Library. The service will be available Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. At this time, individual requests will be limited to 10 items per library card. This is a contactless service with materials checked out in advance and clearly labeled with the patron’s name to maintain social distancing protocols and minimize risk. Staff members working within the building will be exercising the same precautions by utilizing masks, gloves and disinfectants to ensure a safe process.

While Library buildings remain closed, CFPL is pleased to launch a new readers’ advisory service where patrons will be able to fill out an online form at concordlibrary.org indicating preferences to receive a list of personalized book recommendations. Thematic book bundles for kids will be among the requestable offerings. “Library staff are very dedicated in their work of connecting community members to resources and the launch of contactless pickup and a personalized readers’ advisory service will help to further those goals,” said Kerry Cronin, Director of the CFPL.

Book returns will be open at the Main Library on Mondays and Fridays beginning at 9:30 a.m. until filled. Based on public health guidance library staff will quarantine the books for up to 72 hours before they are checked in. Please note that this may result in a slight delay before the items are removed from a patron’s record, but will not result in accrual of fines.

For more information about these initiatives and the CFPL’s virtual services visit us online at concordlibrary.org, email CFPLquestions@concordma.gov or call the Main Library at 978-318-3300.