Library adjusts operations for ‘Level Orange’ COVID restrictions

In response to Mesa County’s shift to “Level Orange” pandemic restrictions, Mesa County Libraries are making several operational changes effective Saturday, Nov. 7, that library patrons and the public should be aware of.

• Capacity will be limited at all library locations. Because of those limits, some library visitors may experience a short wait before being allowed into the library. Please be patient.
• Hours of operation will be limited at some locations as staff shift to new service and safety responsibilities. New hours at the Central Library and Clifton and Fruita branches are as follows:
  • Central Library: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday.
  • Clifton and Fruita branches: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.
  • Hours at all other branches remain unchanged.
• In-person programs are suspended until further notice, but Mesa County Libraries will continue to produce virtual programming on its YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram TV pages and via Zoom. Please see the library Event Calendar for information.
• Use of library study rooms will be limited to two people or one household at a time.
• Use of public computers will be limited to one 1-hour session per day per individual.
• No public reservations will be made for the 970West Studio.
• Masks and social distancing will continue to be required for all people using the library. We ask that patrons who are not feeling well or who are in quarantine please use virtual services offered online through mesacountylibraries.org. Virtual services include downloadable ebooks and e-audiobooks through OverDrive and a variety of eResources such as Lynda, Mango Languages, and Kanopy streaming movies.

In addition, the upcoming Saturday Book Sales planned by Friends of the Mesa County Libraries will be canceled.

Mesa County Libraries will continue to offer Curbside Pickup of materials on hold at all locations. More information about Curbside Pickup is available at mesacountylibraries.org or by calling the Central Library at 970-243-4442 or your local branch.

Throughout the pandemic, Mesa County Libraries have taken many steps to ensure cleanliness and safety, including regular cleaning of library facilities, mask-wearing and social distancing, and cleaning and quarantine of returned materials. Those practices will continue.