Due to coronavirus concerns and an abundance of caution for public health, the Botetourt County Libraries have closed all locations at least through Sunday, March 29. In addition, all Roanoke Valley Libraries (Roanoke City, Roanoke County and Salem) with whom we share materials have also closed their doors temporarily. It was a difficult but necessary decision. We want everyone to be safe!
Now for the good news: our digital library is still open 24/7. Go to www.BocoLibraries.info to see coronavirus updates and access all the digital resources we offer.
To find ebooks, eaudiobooks and digital magazines, click “Downloads” to see our two primary resources: Libby (Overdrive) and RBDigital. If you’ve never used them before and need help getting set up, call or email us for instructions. We’ll be glad to help troubleshoot with you and make sure you have something to pass the time while you’re cooped up at home! Be prepared to tell us what type of device you’re using (like an iPhone, Android tablet or Windows PC).
Don’t have reliable internet at home? Drive to a library parking lot any time of day or night to connect to our 24/7 wi-fi service, download the titles you want to your device, and drive home to enjoy them later offline.
If you have internet access, check out online courses to learn something new while you’re stuck at home. Universal Class has a wide variety of courses available (targeted toward adults and young adults), and Scholastic has opened up free courses for children during the pandemic. We’re excited to make it easier for you to find these special opportunities.
At the time of this writing, staff will be available to answer questions by phone or email on Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Don’t have internet and can’t do any research or look up information? Call us and we’ll look it up for you. If you need some good movie or book recommendations, we’ll help you find titles to enjoy.
Also at the time of this writing, some Roanoke County library locations plan to open their drive-through holds pickup windows. If you want materials and are willing to drive a little farther out, you can still get them! Again, we’ll be happy to assist you in requesting the right materials by phone or email. Be prepared to give us your name or library card number so we can use the right account.
We realize that many people are self-isolating, and we’re glad to support you during that time. No materials will be due when we’re closed, and no one will accrue overdue fines during that period. If you have a special situation and have trouble getting materials returned when we re-open, let us know. We’ll try our best to accommodate your needs during a challenging time.
As always, we’re proud to be your guide to find credible, current information about COVID-19. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us. A librarian will be happy to point you to the latest and most reliable information available so you won’t have to wonder about rumors.
~ Julie Phillips, Director
Botetourt County Libraries
