By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
As Downbeach public libraries prepare to reopen following the COVID-19 pandemic closures, patrons are being advised of protocols that will be implemented to keep everyone safe.
Longport Public Library, 2305 Atlantic Ave., has already opened with limited capacity, and patrons are advised to call ahead of your visit to check capacity before you arrive. Indoor programs are not being held, and one-on-one assistance is not available, but outdoor programming will continue, and faxing, scanning and printing is available. Computer usage is limited to 15 minutes. Curbside pickup is also available. Patrons can visit the library's website, longportpubliclibrary.org, to browse materials and place a hold. A library staffer will call you to let you know when you can pick up your selection at the designated location on Atlantic Avenue. Call the library to let staff know you have arrived and have your library card with you.
The library is featuring a summer reading program for adults and a reading challenge for youths, online storytime and crafts for children, virtual family Bingo, Trivia Night in the gazebo behind Borough Hall, Summer Book Club discussions in the gazebo and live-streamed, and online Tuesday Tastings with local chefs. The library will host a Thriving Seas concert 6 p.m. Friday, July 31 in the gazebo
The library is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Call 609-487-7403 for more information or to register for any event. Learn more about programs at www.longportpubliclibrary.org.
Margate Public Library
Margate Public Library, 8100 Atlantic Ave., plans to open Monday, July 13 with social distancing protocols and 25% capacity. Patrons must wear face masks and enter and exit from the beachside parking lot. There will be no access from the Atlantic Avenue entrance. The meeting room, quiet study area and children's area will be closed until further notice.
There will be six computer stations available, but access will be limited to 30 minutes per patron per day, with no exceptions.
Patrons are encouraged to place book orders using the library public access catalog on margatelibrary.org or by calling the library directly 609-822-4700. Curbsite pickup will continue to be available by request.
The library will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Learn more at www.margatelibrary.org.
Ventnor Library and Cultural Arts Center.
Atlantic County Library/Ventnor, 6500 Atlantic Ave., will also open Monday, July 13 at 25% capacity as mandated by the State of New Jersey. All patrons and staff will be required to wear masks and maintain social distancing.
Computer use will be limited to 30 minutes, by appointment. Patrons should call the library to reserve a date and time.
To help limit in-person interactions, patrons are encouraged to request items in advance online or by phone so they can be ready for pick up. Curbside pickup is also available 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and external book drops are in place for the easy return of materials.
The library will be open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The first hour of each day is reserved for high-risk patrons.
Visit www.atlanticlibrary.org for more information.
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