With so much going on, it’s hard to keep up with what’s new (or not) at Botetourt County Libraries. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions!
“Are you open?” Yes, nearly all normal library services are open by curbside, phone and virtual access. That includes print/copy/fax/scan, getting materials (books, movies, music, puzzles & more), tech and research help, free WiFi, and more.
“What are your hours?” Currently, all branches are open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5p.m. Fincastle has extra hours on Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and Blue Ridge is open additional hours on Tuesday and Thursday, 5-8 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 pm.
“Can people come inside the buildings now?” No, not yet.
“So when can we come in?” Not sure yet! We’re following regional and school metrics from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). Once all metrics are within “moderate” levels for two weeks with decreasing trends throughout that two-week period, then we will consider opening our buildings in phases. We have a plan ready to go, but it may be spring before numbers level out.
“I really need to use a public computer / want to browse / do something in a library building, can you accommodate me?” You have a couple options. First, you can explain your situation to us, and see if we can find a creative workaround. We have laptops you can use curbside if you don’t have a computer, and we can take videos of shelves for you to “browse” virtually. We’re getting pretty good at finding ways to deliver services in a curbside/virtual environment, so give us a try! The second option is to call a Roanoke County Public Library branch. Their libraries are open to Roanoke County residents primarily, but depending on the situation, they may be able to accommodate you.
“When are my books/movies due?” All due dates have returned to “normal” – that is, what they were pre-COVID. Check your account online or give us a call if you’re not sure when items are due.
“How can I return my books?” All libraries’ bookdrops are open 24/7. Drop them off anytime!
“I returned my books three days ago, why are they still showing on my account?” We quarantine materials for seven days, following recommendations from studies that tested COVID on real library materials. In order to limit staff handling the items, we do not take them off accounts before quarantining. You will not be charged fines for the quarantine period.
“I returned my books, but they’re showing ‘late’ in quarantine and now my account is blocked!” We apologize for the glitch. We should have that problem fixed in our system soon. In the meantime, please call us and we’ll make manual adjustments so you can still use the library while items are in quarantine.
We’re so grateful for your patience as we work through issues, find creative workarounds and make decisions with your safety as the top priority. It’s been wonderful to see so many of you curbside or chat with you on the phone. Come see us soon!
