Branches of the King County Library System remain closed to the public, but a new program – beginning today, July 1 – allows users to get their hands on books and other library materials.
The program, dubbed “Curbside to Go,” is initially being implemented at 16 libraries, including Enumclaw.
“We are excited to be offering Curbside to Go,” said KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum. “While we are not yet able to welcome patrons back inside our buildings, these next steps bring us closer to providing full access to KCLS’ collection, programs and services.”
Curbside to Go will operated on a limited schedule: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and again from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; and on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Curbside to Go is intended to provide a safe, contact-free way to pick up library materials. Patrons may arrive by car, bike or on foot, with or without an appointment. While outside library buildings, patrons are asked to maintain 6 feet of separation from other patrons and staff at all times.
How to use Curbside to Go
By appointment: make an appointment on the myLIBRO mobile app, or call one of the select libraries’ Curbside to Go phone numbers; arrive at the scheduled appointment time and materials will be waiting in a bag on an identified pickup table.
To call the Enumclaw library, dial 425-507-5810 (the library’s main line is still closed, and KCLS is using a dedicated line for curbside service).
By walk-up: call the phone number posted outside the library then wait in a service line; library staff will collect the requested materials and deliver them to the pickup table.
By walk-up without a phone: wait in the service line until you reach the front; advance to the library door once staff are back inside. They will speak through the glass and staff will then collect the requested materials and deliver them to the pickup table.
Library also accepting returns
Due to COVID-19 concerns, King County libraries had stopped taking returns. That policy changed, however, beginning June 23.
Now, returns will be accepted between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; also, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
All materials must be returned through the manual book drop. They will not be accepted in person by staff or through self check-in. Returned materials will be quarantined – and remain on patron accounts – for a minimum of three days before being checked in. Any fines or fees accrued during that time will be waived.
KCLS encourages patrons to continue to take advantage of online services and resources while library buildings remain closed to the public. Residents in the KCLS service area (in King County, outside the city of Seattle) can sign up instantly for a digital eCard to access the library online. For those who don’t have computer or internet access, contact “Ask KCLS” by phone at 425-462-9600 or 800-462-9600.
