When Will DC Libraries Reopen For Browsing?

“Dear PoPville,

Wondering if you can post a question on the site about library access? Wondering why schools and retail are “reopening” but access to browse at the library is still restricted. I emailed the chair of the council cmte yesterday but haven’t heard back.”

DCPL currently says:

“As libraries open in phases, there will be limits on the services offered in each phase. Our goal is to gradually offer more services as health restrictions are relaxed. As each library will require some reconfiguration in order to accommodate the need to social distance, library services may look differently at each library based on the location’s space layout. Additionally, some of the public spaces in libraries may be needed as staff space to ensure materials are handled safely and staff can social distance.

The Library is currently open for limited in-person services. You can visit our open libraries to:

Return materials
Pick up a hold
Check out display items
Have a book pulled from the stacks
Get a library card
Manage your library account
Receive print, copy and scan services
Sign-up to use a limited number of computers for a 45-minute session once per day or one 15 minute express session per hour
Use the bathroom

Customers will not have access to:

Browse the collection
Sit and read/study/work at a table or lounge area
Read magazines and newspapers
Use meeting or study rooms
Attend in-person programs or events

Current Hours and Locations

Anacostia, Bellevue, Benning, Capitol View, Chevy Chase, Cleveland Park, Deanwood, Francis A. Gregory, Georgetown, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Mt. Pleasant, Northeast, Palisades, Petworth, Shaw, Shepherd Park, Southeast, Tenley-Friendship, West End and Woodridge libraries are currently open.

Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.”