Amarillo Public Library to Bring Back Evening and Sunday Hours
We're starting to get back to "normal", whatever that's worth because no one seems to know that means any more. Amarillo has recently downgraded to yellow in its Covid-19 response, which means we are starting to see more and more things open back up. last week the Amarillo Zoo started returning to a more active event schedule. (And by the way you should check out their latest addition. She's a cutie)
One place that's opening up a little more is the Amarillo Public Library. Starting Monday, they will return to their regular pre-pandemic hours, which means they'll be open in the evenings as well as Sundays. If you're still a little apprehensive about spending time in public spaces, the library has your back. They'll continue to offer curbside services Monday through Saturday.
I, for one, am exited about this. There's nothing like getting into a good book. And rather than spending money on books I may only read once (or "eventually") and building a library that I don't have space for, it's so much easier to simply check out a copy from the library, read it, and return it--all for free. My boys are library fans, too. It's their chance to pick out a little something different when it's time for a bedtime story before slipping into dreamland.
There's more too, for those who may not have the best internet at home the Library offers great resources for those in need and the staff there are more than glad to help you out. Believe it or not the library is also a great place to catch up on some books that might not be around schools anymore. There's just something fun about the "Banned Books" section that brings up nostalgia from the 9th grade book report you stayed up all night writing.
It's more than just the books, another move they're making is allowing non profits to make reservations for library meeting rooms. The policies in place allow for restricted capacity with time between groups to make sure the staff has time to properly disinfect the meeting space before the next group comes in. At the moment they are only making the space available for registered non profits.
Amarillo Library Services Director Amada Barrera going on the record stating:
“Many of our patrons are eager for a return to in-person events, and so are we. In the past, we have rarely had to restrict program attendance, but maintaining appropriate safety measures may require that as we go forward.”
There is also consideration for summer events like Amarillo Reads in the works but for the moment they will continue most of these via social media, take-home kits and virtual story times.
For those who are interested, you may reach out to the Library and get the latest on the updated hours and policies by visiting the Amarillo Library website.