A Message from the Director
A MESSAGE FROM
THE DIRECTOR:
May 2, 2020
On May 1, Governor Holcomb outlined his five-stage Back on Track Indiana plan to resume services in phases between now and July 4. Goshen Public Library appreciates how public libraries are specified in both this plan and Executive Order 20-26, giving Indiana public libraries the ability to phase in services according to local guidelines, community needs, and our capacity to provide services safely for all.
Like the Governor and members of his team, GPL staff, management, and board have been developing and working through a series of phased restoration of services since our facility closure in mid-March. We began by extending our Wi-Fi throughout our north parking lot for 24/7 access. We re-allocated funding to purchase additional digital content and increased borrowing limits for these materials. We developed a new digital access library card. We maintained our ability to communicate with and assist patrons through email and dedicated open phone hours. Our new website launched in March serving as a trusted resource for information about library and community services in the face of the pandemic. Staff have used our social media platforms to provide reliable curated information related to Covid-19 and to make known many community resources for assistance. Equally so, staff have created and shared a great deal of digital content designed to inspire fun and creativity, elicit curiosity, and to educate.
Recently GPL began offering limited Essential Services directly related to the needs of those in our community affected most by the economic crisis resulting from Covid-19. We are very proud to serve our community in this unique way. Members of the public needing to copy, fax, or scan essential documents, as well as those seeking resources and assistance to file for public benefits can now visit the library Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 10-2 pm, for access. Appointments are recommended and can be made by calling us at 574-533-9531, M-F, 10-2 pm. Patrons should expect several safety protocols in place upon arrival.
Goshen Public Library is committed to the safety of all staff, patrons, and guests when considering any and all services. We will continue to monitor local, state, and federal guidelines when planning our next steps. Upcoming is our plan to offer contactless Curbside Services. This will allow patrons to place holds and pick up materials at the front of the building emphasizing staff and public safety while following the guidelines as outlined in Stage Two of Governor Holcomb’s Back on Track Indiana plan. Early next week we’ll communicate when this service will begin and instructions for participation. Please follow local news, monitor our Facebook page, or check our website at goshenpl.lib.in.us for more information.
We are living through unique times. All of us are experiencing this crisis differently. Some have embraced a slower pace and are enjoying more time spent with family at home. Others are working harder than ever to provide oversight for community resources. Healthcare workers and first-responders are our new super heroes. Our teachers continue their star status as they educate the most precious among us in new and unusual ways. Too many of us have been directly hurt by this pandemic and nearly all of us have felt the pressure and stress of so much change so quickly. Goshen Public Library has more than a 100 year history providing quality of life and essential services to our community. We are proud servants and are grateful to have been with you while we’ve been apart. Soon, we look forward to seeing and hearing from so many of you in the more personal ways we’ve always enjoyed!
Be well friends!
Ann-Margaret Rice, Director
Goshen Public Library