The doors to the Eagle Grove Memorial Library may be closed, but people are still opening up a good book – they’re just doing it a little differently. For many, they are not turning the literal pages of the material they are reading, but rather using the click of a mouse, a swipe of a hand, or even their ears as they turn to technology.
“Our online usage is up about 30 percent since we closed the doors to the public,” said Jan Grandgeorge, Eagle Grove Memorial Library director.
They are doing so through a program called “Bridges.” According to Grandgeorge, all you need to access the site is a library card number. If you don’t know yours, or have one, you can simply call them at 448-4115 and ask. Once you have that, you’re only a few clicks away.
To access Bridges go the Eagle Grove Memorial Library webpage, www1.youseemore.com/NILC/EagleGrove and select the Bridges icon. Currently there are approximately 79,000 different titles available in e-book, audiobook, video and even magazine formats. Grandgeorge noted that they have also been doing curbside pickup for those who are uncomfortable with technology.
“If someone wants to call us (515-448-4115) we will get books ready for them, put them in a bag and give them the books when they come to pick them up,” said Grandgeorge.
Many libraries are doing this as the Governor’s office approved this method of service to library users.
With staff working from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, when they are not busy preparing orders for pickup, they have spent time doing some spring cleaning projects. They’ve done some painting, cleaning carpets and other general sanitizing and cleaning. They’ve also been attending continuing education and informational meetings via zoom and beginning to plan for reopening.
“We’re wondering just what that will look like. I’m sure it won’t be just open the door and go back to the ‘old normal,’” said Grandgeorge. “It’s been interesting to correspond with libraries throughout the United States and Canada about their experiences and their plans for re-opening.”
Grandgeorge is not only excited at the thought of re-opening, but happy to announce that when they do there will be some new titles on the shelves to be checked out. Until then, stay home, stay safe, and snuggle up with a virtual good book.
