Our reopening plan: Stage 3 (11/2/20 - TBD)

The library building will be open to the public with limited hours for walkthrough services and computer appointments. We will limit the number of guests allowed in the building at any one time and will require face coverings upon entry and at all times while in the building. We have removed most chairs and tables, and some areas have been closed off. Computers will be available by appointment and will be limited to an hour per day per person. Youth computers will be available for a maximum of one hour per day per child/teen. Scanning, copying and faxing services will be available. For your safety and ours, computers, scanners and copiers are self-service only and staff will not be able to help you.

Building hours:

Monday-Thursday, 11am to 7pm
Friday and Saturday, 11am to 4pm
Closed Sundays

General information:

• Face covering is required while in the building.
  
• Please practice physical distancing while in the building.
  
• Similar to grocery stores, we ask that you make an effort to only touch items you intend to borrow.
  
• We will do our best to sanitize frequently touched surfaces regularly but strongly suggest you follow CDC guidelines and wash or sanitize your hands after your visit.
  
• For your safety and ours, please maintain physical distance and stand behind barriers while interacting with staff at our public service desks.
  
• If you choose to use our self checkout stations, you will receive a complimentary CRPL stylus pen to use at the station and take home with you.
  
• Curbside pickup available upon request.
  

Available services:

• Adult computers by appointment and limited to one hour per day per person. If you would like to use your own device with the library’s WiFi, you must also make an appointment and limit your visit to an hour. Call the library to make an appointment and for more information.
  
• Youth computers available on a drop-in basis and limited to one hour per day per child/teen
  
• Scanning station available but limited to 15 minutes per session.
  
• Computers, scanning, printing and copying are all self-service and staff will not be able to instruct or assist you. Please make sure you know what you’re doing before you begin.
  
• Reference and reader’s advisory services available by phone and email only.
  
• WiFi is available outside the building on Birmingham adjacent to the emergency exit by our Youth Services department.

Services that are not available at this time:

• Study and meeting room use is suspended.
  
• Programs are suspended.
  
• Books and magazines are only available for checkout; unfortunately, you may not stay and read at the library. Newspapers are not available.
  
• All toys have been put away.
  
• Socializing, meetings and tutoring sessions in our public areas are not allowed at this time.

FAQs

What if I feel I cannot wear a mask due to a medical condition?

We understand that not everyone can wear a face covering; while we cannot permit you to enter the building without a mask, we will do what we can to help you accomplish your library tasks while you remain outside the building. Please call or email Dana Wishnick, the library director, to arrange for accommodations. Call (708) 423-7753 or email dwishnick@chicagoridgelibrary.org

Do I need a library card to use the computers? Is there a charge to use the computers?

No, during Stage 3, we are allowing everyone one hour per day on the computers by appointment. For now, we are waiving the one dollar charge for nonresidents.

Why are my items still showing checked out when I returned them yesterday?

We are quarantining all items for a period of 3-7 days before handling them. After their quarantine period, they will be checked in fine-free and will no longer appear on your record.