Darien Joins Neighboring Libraries and Scales Back Services to Flatten the Curve

Local Libraries Respond to Rising COVID Cases

The Darien, Ridgefield, Weston, and Westport public libraries announced today that they are coordinating their efforts to flatten the curve through scaled-back library services.

Darien Library will continue to offer 30-minute Express Services browsing and computer sessions as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations rise around the state. With health experts predicting an increase over the holidays, the libraries are working in concert to share information and reassess in-person services on a regular basis. The libraries, all located in southern Fairfield County, often collaborate, since a change made by one will likely affect the others. Some area libraries, like Westport Library, have shifted to an appointment-only model, while others, like New Canaan and Weston, are adopting time limits similar to Darien’s.

The Library Directors and their Boards are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of staff and patrons and are grateful for the patience and support from their communities. They will continue to monitor the pandemic and make changes to their operations when warranted.

Darien Library implemented changes on November 23, moving from two-hour time limits to 30-minute Express Services browsing and computer sessions. “We had hoped that these measures would be brief, and that we’d be able to loosen up our restrictions in a few weeks, but the statistics are not encouraging. Thus, we will be maintaining our current model through at least January 15,” said Darien Library Director Kiera Parrott. “Thankfully,” she added, “we continue to see many community members making use of our contactless holds pickup service, currently offered Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m.”

Library programs and special events will continue to be offered virtually, and families are encouraged to book appointments in advance to visit the Children’s Library. Attendance at virtual programs has steadily increased throughout the year as more people turn to safe,  

online ways to connect with their local community. “You guys saved my daughter's summer. I can only thank the Library for all of what it does to help enrich their experiences through these unprecedented times,” said a local parent who asked to remain anonymous.

Library programming is offered for all ages on a range of topics from art, to history, to music. Items may be borrowed from the building or downloaded at darienlibrary.org/digital. For a complete listing of current Darien Library services, visit darienlibrary.org/reopening.

 

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Submitted by Darien, CT

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