Metro Atlanta
DeKalb libraries adjust for virtual services
DeKalb County Public Library has made changes to make virtual services more accommodating.
DeKalb County Public Library patrons are probably wondering when they’ll be allowed back into the buildings to use the services in person. Director Alison Weissinger addressed concerns and unveiled some changes in a recent letter.
“I know many of you are wondering when the Library will open back up. I wish I had a definitive answer for you, but I do not. I can tell you that we are working with DeKalb County Leadership, the Library’s Board of Trustees and the DeKalb County Board of Health to come up with a plan for how and when we will reopen and begin serving you in person again,” she wrote.
In the meantime, library staff have been working hard to shift focus to a virtual environment with these changes:
- It's now easier to get a library card online for quick access to all digital resources such as OverDrive, RB Digitial, PressReader and more.
- Fines on all materials currently checked out have been suspended. The library will continue to adjust due dates on all items so that patrons will not be penalized for any late fees.
- The number of checkouts from OverDrive, the main eBook resource, has been increased. There's also been a shift to purchase more content on digital platforms.
- There's a new digital resource called hoopla! It is a streaming service that has video, eBooks, music, comic books and more. It is expected to go live soon.
- There is lots of new virtual programming for both children and adults on the social media channels, such as Facebook and Instagram and through other video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Google Hangouts. The library is doing its best to reinvent the in-branch experience with virtual storytimes, craft programs, book discussions and more.
- Staff continues to answer phone inquiries at 404-508-7190. Press zero and leave a message. The messages are retrieved remotely and they try to respond within 24 hours.
Information: dekalblibrary.org
