COVID-19 Services
New Westminster Public Library continues to offer library services to City of New Westminster residents and visitors.
We are actively working with our public health partners to implement and manage the Library’s WorkSafe BC COVID-19 Safety Plan. As the pandemic unfolds we are also continuing to consult and monitor best practices within the library sector specifically, with a commitment to adjust our procedures through time as needed. As well as our own, library-specific plan you may also refer to the City of New Westminster COVID-19 Safety plan for details about the City of New Westminster’s efforts to manage other municipal facilities and departments.
IMPORTANT: MASKS ARE MANDATORY WHILE INSIDE THE LIBRARY
In response to new Public Health Orders issued on November 19, 2020,there is now a temporary, province-wide mandatory mask requirement for staff and members of the public inside all City facilities. This requirement will be in effect for the duration of the order and is designed to maximize safety for staff and residents alike. Masks must cover both the nose and mouth at all times, while inside the library.
Disposable masks are available at all facilities for anyone who does not have one. Individuals who are medically exempt, along with children 2 years of age or under are not required to wear a mask. Those who choose not wear a mask while inside the library may be asked to leave the library.
LIBRARY SERVICES IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19
The details below contain basic information about current hours of operation and services as they currently exist, in response to the pandemic. Please check back regularly for updates.
In addition to the hours below, please see our Holiday Closures.
| Main Branch Effective Dec 1st | Monday 10am – 6pm | Tuesday 10am – 6pm | Wednesday 10am – 6pm | Thursday 10am – 6pm | Friday 10am – 5pm | Saturday 10am – 5pm | Sunday 12pm – 5pm |
| Queensborough Branch | Monday Closed | Tuesday 11am – 5pm | Wednesday 1pm – 5pm | Thursday 1pm – 5pm | Friday 1pm – 5pm | Saturday 10am – 2pm | Sunday Closed |
Please note that the first hour of each day at Main Branch, and every Tuesday from 11am-1pm at the Queensborough Branch, is reserved for seniors, First Responders, and those who identify as vulnerable.
Available Services
The library currently offers the following services:
- Access to all collections
- Self checkout machines
- Daily and weekly newspapers
- Information Services/Reading Recommendations
- In-person holds pick-up service
- Public Computers (by appointment)
- In-person Printing, Copying and Scanning
- Mobile Printing pick-up
- Limited seating/study space (Main branch 2nd floor only)
- Virtual Programs & Technology Assistance
- Expanded WiFi service (Main Branch)
Unavailable
The following services are not available at this time:
- In-person programs/meeting rooms
- Extensive in-person technology assistance
- iConnect Lab
- Creation Stations (digitization stations)
- Interlibrary Loans
- Device loans (Chromebooks, eReaders, etc.)
- Home Library Services (HLS)
How we’re keeping you safe
- Limiting the number of patrons in the Library at any given time
- Providing hand sanitizers at the entrance of the library
- Providing limited seating that is physically distanced
- Installing floor markers and directional signage that encourage physical distancing
- Increasing our sanitation schedule, especially at high touch areas
- Installing Plexiglas dividers at service counters and work spaces
- Providing one-way ‘up-down’ stairwells
- Designating physically distanced lineup areas for Information desks
- Training all library staff in proper Covid-19 safety measures
What you can do
- Stay home if you are feeling unwell, have cold or flu-like symptoms
- Wear a mask when visiting the library
- Wash or sanitize your hands before entering the building and frequently throughout the day
- Practice physical distancing
- Limit the duration of your visits as best you can
- In the words of Dr. Bonnie Henry, “Be Safe, Be Calm, Be Kind”
We know you may have questions about our modified hours and available services. Please feel free to connect with us at 604-527-4666 or send an email to AskUs@nwpl.ca
