To Our Community, 

We have missed seeing you for in-person services. We hope you are staying healthy and have been able to make use of the digital library or participate in one of our ongoing virtual classes while the building has been closed. 

As the state begins a reopening process, your Burlington Public Library staff is retrofitting our spaces to meet social distancing guidelines, ensuring we have the necessary protective equipment, sanitizing supplies, updating procedures in place for your protection, and preparing new low- and no-contact service models. We are learning and discussing with libraries throughout Iowa and around the country to share best practices and develop plans to serve you safely and effectively. We will be adapting our procedures to ensure proper social distancing for staff and customers. 

The specific timing of a careful phased reopening will depend on several factors, including guidance from local, state, and national health officials and the availability of needed supplies. We will share the specifics of services as soon as possible.

While our building remains closed, our digital library is always open. You can access many and varied resources at www.burlington.lib.ia.us including downloadable eBooks and audiobooks, streaming movies and music, magazines and newspapers, and online learning tools such as Chilton Online Manual and BrainFuse live tutoring. We have moved our programs for all ages to virtual platforms. Follow us on social media or check out our calendar on the website to learn about all that is being offered. Our Ask a Librarian service is also available on the Library’s website to provide you with:

• Library account help, including registration for a digital card if you don’t currently have a library account
• Tech and digital resources help
• Answers to your reference questions

We are glad so many of you are staying connected to us digitally and it is our pleasure to support you. We look forward to welcoming you back to the library and serving you in-person again. 

Sincerely,                                          

Your Burlington Public Library Team