In-Branch Services Reopening

We looked at historical data for foot-traffic as our primary indicator, and also considered variables such as common area square footage, shelving, number of staff, quantity of computers, and typical patron uses – all of which vary by branch.

1. Log into 'My Account'.

2. Go to your 'On Hold' page under 'My Borrowing'.

3. Click on the current library ‘Pick up at’ drop down menu associated with the item for which you want to change the pickup location.

4. Select the branch you would like your holds sent to.

(NOTE: The pickup location for a hold can NOT be changed online once the item is in transit to the current pickup location OR if it’s already on the hold shelf awaiting pickup. If either of these is the case, you will need to call the location that has your hold so they can send it to the location you'd like.)

Viruses dry up quickly on paper, and we ask that book pages not be sprayed, wiped, or otherwise made wet, as that would damage the book. You are free to use a disinfectant wipe on the plastic book cover, and to "quarantine" your books before use. Further, please wash hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and do not cough or sneeze on the books.

Returned items are being quarantined for 72 hours before being checked-in and recirculated. Because of this, there will be a delay for a returned item to appear as "returned" in your account. But don't worry - there are no fines or late fees right now.

Libraries work best when everyone shares responsibly - so even if we do not have fines, we ask that you please honor our checkout time limits. If materials are not returned, after enough time passes we would consider the book "lost" and a bill would be sent to replace the item. And we definitely don't want to have to do that!

The Library Board of Directors and Executive Committee do not come to these decisions lightly - the safety of our staff, patrons, and volunteers is our top priority. For these reasons we will be constantly evaluating our processes, protective equipment, cleaning materials, and guidance from local health officials.

Specific to in-branch service, staff are equipped with safety measures and procedures detailed above. Additionally, The Library is adhering to CDC best practices, supplying all necessary personal protective equipment and cleaning/sanitizing supplies, following guidelines within the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, maintaining regular communication with local health officials, and continually evaluating the situation at an organizational level through feedback from public-facing staff.

Due to the efforts to safely prepare our locations for socially distant services, unfortunately at this time we are not prepared to accept book donations at any Library location, including at our Indy Library Store located at the Library Services Center. Please do not leave donations on the curbside pickup table, and do not place donations in the book drops. We will gladly accept donations once again in the future, and will make that announcement when ready.

Yes, you can pause your holds.

1. Login to My Account and select On Hold under My Borrowing. On Hold items that are Not Ready can be paused. Items that are Ready or In Transit may not be paused.

2. Click on “Pause hold” and select a date that you would like the hold to become active again.

3. If you have multiple holds that you would like to pause, select each item by placing a checkmark in the box to the left of the item you would like to pause.

4. After selecting the items you would like to pause, click on “Manage items” at the bottom of the page.

5. Click on “Pause holds” and select a date that you would like the holds become active again.

Go here for more details about pausing your holds.