While the Moretown Memorial Library may be empty these days, its schedule is not. The library has adapted to a no-contact community engagement protocol and is continuing to offer books and programs to the public.
“We’ve moved many of our programs to the Zoom platform,” said library director Cory Stephenson. “This Friday we’re going to have an open mic night via Zoom.” The video-chat open mic night is meant for community members to share their hidden talents and support friends. This isn’t the only Zoom item on the library agenda, however.
Next week, on April 24, the Mad River Valley libraries are hosting a Harry Potter Trivia Night on the Kahoot app, which Stephenson expects will be a hit. Additionally, the library is offering a Zoom-based book club, called the “Any book” book club, where people can get together and share their thoughts on whatever book they’ve been reading, and the library plans to start a virtual knitting night. All links to join Zoom meetings are on the library website (www.moretownlibrary.com).
In terms of book rentals, the library is offering a biweekly curbside pickup. Those who email Stephenson with requests can pick up books on the front steps of the library on Tuesdays and Saturdays. When books are returned, Stephenson disinfects them and holds them for seven days to ensure books in circulation are germ-free before going out again. According to Stephenson, people are already making use of this service. “I’ve seen a steady stream of curbside pickups,” she said.
For those not willing to take the physical book-borrowing risk, the library is still offering audiobooks and e-books to those with a library membership. “I can create new library cards over email or the phone,” said Stephenson, assuring the public that it’s not too late to sign up.
Finally, the library still offers Wi-Fi access to anyone who needs it. While the physical building is closed, people can access the Wi-Fi from their cars from the parking lot. “I have removed the password, so anyone who needs Wi-Fi can park beside the library and use it,” said Stephenson. “I’m happy to help people try to move online.”
