Curbside Pickup

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Curbside Pickup Service

Updated 6/2/2020

Your library is still here for you. New Glarus Public Library is committed to providing patrons expanded access to online resources and safe access to physical materials through a limited curbside pickup service.

Please note that we are operating without the usual inter-library delivery service and with reduced staff under strict public health guidelines. Considering the current limitations, we are prioritizing service to local patrons and limiting loans of new items. We will continue to post public announcements about any expansion we are able to make to services.

Pickups will be scheduled Tuesdays (9:30 AM-2:00 PM) and Fridays (9:30 AM-1 PM and 2-6:30 PM).

Follow three easy steps to pick up materials:

Step 1: Place your items on hold.

Already received notification that a hold is available for pickup? Skip to Step 2.

  • Place holds in LINKcat for items currently available at New Glarus. For tips, see the FAQ section below. 
  • You can also call the library 608-527-2003 or email staff [at] ngpl.org (staff[at]ngpl[dot]org) with specific requests or areas of interest. We’re happy to assist you, though responses may be delayed. Thank you for your patience.
  • To ensure timely pickups, place requests by Wednesday. We may not be able to fill later requests until the following week.
  • You will be notified via phone or email when your hold is ready.

Step 2: Contact us to schedule a pick up.

  • After you receive notification, call the library 608-527-2003 or email staff [at] ngpl.org (staff[at]ngpl[dot]org) to schedule a pickup time.
  • To comply with state guidelines, you must have an appointment. Please visit the library only at your confirmed pickup time. It’s not possible to request items at the window.

Step 3: Pick up your items.

  • Staff will check out your items in advance, and hand them through our makeshift Curbside Pickup Window. You may want to bring your own bag, as we cannot provide bags for every order.

Remember, Village Hall remains closed to the public. Lobbies, restrooms, computers and other spaces will not be accessible. However, the book drop is now open for returns! All items will be quarantined for a minimum of 72 hours before being checked in. We will waive any fines that accrue due to this delay.

 

FAQs

How do I find items on your shelves?

When you search for an item in LINKcat, check the list of Holdings to see if New Glarus has a copy available on the shelf. You can also use the "Available on shelf" feature to refine your results, or use the Advanced Search.

Here is a quick how-to video we put together to demonstrate:

Do I need a library card?

Yes, patrons must hold a South Central Library System card to use curbside pickup. Online-only “web” cards cannot be used to check out physical items.

If you do not have a regular card, we can create one for you. Current restrictions prevent us from collecting a signature in person, so you will need to submit a signed form via email or through the postal service. Call 608-527-2003 or email staff [at] ngpl.org (staff[at]ngpl[dot]org) for more information.

What if I have mobility issues and cannot leave my vehicle?

If a patron cannot approach the pickup window due to mobility issues, we can provide accommodation such as placing items on the hood or in the trunk of your vehicle. Please request this when scheduling your appointment.

How do I return materials?

Our book drop is now open! Please do not return items in plastic bags, and be sure to check that discs are in their cases. All materials will be quarantined for 72 hours before being checked in. We will waive any fines that result from this delay, and appreciate your patience.

Can I place holds at other libraries?

We understand that while our system-wide delivery service is suspended, some patrons may wish to visit other libraries for expanded access to materials. South Central Library System is maintaining a list of libraries currently offering curbside pickup on their website: www.scls.info/librariesbounceback. Some libraries are only lending to their home patrons. Before you schedule a pickup elsewhere, verify the library’s policy.

Can I place a hold via telephone, and can you provide reading suggestions?

Yes! Please call the library at 608-527-2003 and leave a message if staff aren’t able to answer.

What materials are available for pickup?

All physical materials currently on the shelf at New Glarus are available, including books, DVDs, etc.

What if I have fines or I’m over the checkout limit?

Library staff can override fine restrictions and checkout limits during the pandemic response. If you would like to pay your fines, you may do so online through LINKcat or you may mail a check to the library at PO Box 35, New Glarus WI 53574. We cannot accept payments at the pickup window.

What are you doing to protect the safety of patrons and library staff?

The contactless curbside pickup model we are using provides maximum social distancing for the safety of our patrons and our staff. Staff will wear face masks and follow procedures for frequent hand washing and disinfecting of surfaces, per guidelines from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Department of Public Instruction and other public health authorities.

Patrons and staff should respect the need for social distancing and refrain from approaching one another. This may feel uncomfortable but is necessary to provide a safe, contactless pickup service. If you notice patrons at the pickup window, please remain in your vehicle until the previous patron has departed.