By James Hanlon
Leader Staff Writer
Kids and adults can finally kick-start their summer reading! Oxford and Addison libraries are reopening, a little at a time.
The Oxford Library Board approved a six-stage Reopening Plan at a special board meeting June 3. The library entered Stage 3 of the plan this week. That means curbside pickup and limited patron services. The building is still closed to the public.
As part of Stage 3, all staff are permitted to return to work. Among other duties, staff can shelve books and answer phone calls.
Folks can place items on hold through the online catalog or by calling the library. The library will call patrons when their items are ready to arrange a time for pickup.
Curbside pickup hours are Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday – Saturday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday the library is closed. The library will mark waiting areas for cars. Patrons are required to wear a mask.

The drop box is open for returns. All returned items will be quarantined for three days before being checked back in, so there will be a lag on accounts from when items are returned until they are checked back in. No fines will be assessed to anyone during this reopening phase. New library cards may be obtained by appointment.
Going forward, in Stage 4, patrons may enter the library, but will be limited to lobby or atrium space. Patrons may have in-person conversations with library staff, provided social distancing and safety protocols are followed. Patrons will still be required to wear masks. Only 10 patrons will be permitted in the library at a time.
Stage 5, the library will open to the public with conditions. Only 45 patrons at a time will be permitted in the library. In-person programming can resume.
Stage 6, the library can reopen with the same services as normal. All library services can resume without restrictions.
The library has not set dates for these later stages.
Likewise, the Addison Township Public Library is open for curbside service this week. Beginning June 22, it will reopen by appointment, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

  Addison Township Public Library, Oxford Public Library