Monroeville library reopens to public for in-person browsing, computer use

The Monroeville Public Library announced Thursday that it is allowing in-person browsing and computer use after months of being closed because of the covid-19 pandemic.

“If you’ve missed being able to walk through our collections, pick out your own materials, or use the computers at the stations, now you can come on in,” said a library press release.

The library is restricting the number of patrons allowed into the building at one time, along with restricting browsing in the Children’s Room to appointments only and requiring the use of face masks.

Browsing the library and computer usage will be allowed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday.

The library closed to the public on March 15 and did not reopen to the public until July 27, when it began offering browsing and computer use by appointment. This latest move became effective Jan. 24.

Monroeville council laid off many part-time staffers March 27. In May, 10 full-time employees were furloughed. The full-time staffers were reinstated in June and July.

The library’s board of directors asked council in October to consider reinstating 10 of those part-time positions because of the heavy workload the full-time staff has taken on. Those people remain laid off, said Municipal Manager Tim Little.

The library will continue to offer contactless pickup from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday.

The library will also continue to offer virtual programming, book bundling, mailed materials, reference and instruction by phone and online chatting, printing needs in the contactless pickup area during designated pick-up hours and other services.

More information is available at the library’s website or by calling 412-372-0500.