Five Regina Public Library branches reopen

The Regina Public Library reopened some of its branches Thursday.

The Glen Elm, Regent Place, Albert, Connaught and Prince of Wales branches opened their doors after being closed in March due to the COVID-19 threat.

Hours have been reduced at the branches, however. They now are to be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on every day except Sunday, when they’ll be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The remaining four branches — the Central Library, George Bothwell, Sherwood Village and Sunrise — are to reopen Monday.

“We’re pleased to return to our physical locations,” Jeff Barber, the director and CEO of the Regina Public Library, said in a news release. “Library staff are looking forward to seeing customers once again.”

In June, branches started accepting returns and offering curbside pickup. But the buildings themselves remained closed to the public.

That has changed, but it won’t be business as usual. One-way social distancing markers are in place, sneeze guards are set to be installed and some furniture will be removed.

“Our primary focus is to provide our customers with computer access, and access to materials through browsing and holds pickup,” Barber said. “We are limiting opportunities for people to stay and gather in the library at this time.”

The Regina Public Library will keep up its online services, like digital books, magazines, movies and TV shows.