Alva Review-Courier -

The Alva Public Library plans to open up the first floor stacks for browsing starting March 29. Currently patrons can’t go beyond the front counter and must tell staff members what books they wish to check out. Curbside service is also provided for books.

Termed the “grab and go” phase, the new guidelines will allow patrons above sixth grade age to browse on their own to select materials to check out. Patrons are required to wear a mask; masks will be provided if you need one. Patrons are asked to stay at least six feet apart and to sanitize their hands before browsing the bookshelves, stacks or using the computer.

Computers will be available on a limited one hour a day basis. For your convenience, the library asks that you call and reserve a time slot in advance of your arrival.

Younger patrons up to sixth grade must be accompanied by an adult who keeps the child by their side. Sixth grade and older students will be allowed to select their reading materials without a parent. Youth materials will be made available on tables on the first floor.

Patrons are asked to limit their time in the library. No chairs will be available. However, access will be allowed to restrooms.

Returned items will still be quarantined for safety. The library will continue to offer curbside and desk pick up of materials.

Library board members meeting Monday agreed to the new guidelines to begin March 29. They are termed guidelines rather than policy so that they may be changed easily as needed.

Later if these guidelines work well, the library will consider allowing one or two patrons at a time to reserve tables upstairs for research or two-person meetings.