Rochester Public Library launches 'express' model for in-person browsing, internet use

The Rochester Public Library will resume welcoming community members through its doors on Thursday as part of a new “Library Express” model.

The reopening of in-person service comes as weekly cases of Covid-19 continue to decline. Last week, the City of Rochester lowered its Covid-19 risk dial from ‘high’ to ‘moderate’ for the first time since October.

According to the library, the express model will give patrons the chance to browse and borrow materials or use the internet for up to 30 minutes each day. The service will be offered Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m..

Audrey Betcher, the library’s director, says the time limits are being put in place as way of managing building capacity. While community members do not need to make an appointment, space will be limited.

“Pre-pandemic we were accustomed to a bustling library, with hundreds of visitors using our services at the same time during peak hours,” she said. “To protect staff and visitors, we know we need to limit our capacity.”

Even with the gradual reopening, Betcher adds that many popular amenities that do not allow for social distancing — such as play areas, toys, the Art Room, and study rooms — remain off limits for the time being. She said those activities will return “when it’s safe to do so.”

"Right now we're focusing on the most requested, safest activities, including browsing, borrowing, and using the internet,” said Betcher.

The library will continue to offer walk-up window service, located at the corner of Second Street SE and First Avenue SE,. However, curbside pickup in the nearby parking ramp is ending, according to Betcher. Staff who had been working on the curbside service will be transitioning back into the building to provide assistance at the library’s four service desks.

For more information about Library Express, call the library at 507-328-2300 or visit www.rplmn.org/express.

Cover photo courtesy Rochester Public Library