You can’t browse the shelves yet but Cooper-Siegel Community Library and its affiliated Sharpsburg Community Library will open Monday for patrons to use computers, fax services and printers.
Use is by appointment only.
Jill McConnell, executive director of the libraries, said she is thrilled to be able to offer the services in a safe way to the public.
“We’ve had people asking us when they can use the computers again,” she said. “Plus, we know this is a much-needed service for many people in the communities we serve.”
Cooper-Siegel Community Library along Fox Chapel Road serves about 30,000 residents in the Fox Chapel Area School District communities. The Sharpsburg branch along Main Street in Sharpsburg supplements activities such as book-lending, STEM programs, author meet-and-greets, card games, tutoring and story time.
The facilities have a collection of more than 80,000 books, CDs and reference materials.
Since the state-mandated shutdown in March because of coronavirus concerns, the library has offered a slew of online programs that include book clubs, writing contests and other programs for all ages.
In June, it reintroduced limited services that include curbside delivery.
Now, people can finally get back inside both sites, if only to use the available technology.
Appointments can be made for either location through the library’s website or by calling the library at 412-828-9520.
Sara Mariacher, Sharpsburg branch manager, said that since reopening for limited services this summer, one of the most requested additional services has been computer access.
Mariacher said the eight computers at the Sharpsburg site see steady use, with 200-300 unique log-ins per month.
“The digital divide is still a prominent issue within the community,” she said.
Ironically, people need internet service on a near daily basis, she said.
“Almost everything a person may need to do — apply for jobs and human services, attend classes or keep in touch with family — requires internet access,” Mariacher said. “We are happy to be able to provide it again.”
Both libraries are also offering surprise bundles for people who are looking for new things to read, watch or listen to. Patrons can complete an online form and a librarian will personally select items to match their interests.
Cooper-Siegel is at 403 Fox Chapel Road and offers curbside service from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and from 1 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The Sharpsburg branch is at 1212 Main St. and offers curbside service from noon to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
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