Last week FURL had its first virtual meeting via Zoom. We were all navigating uncharted territory in the age of covid-19. The primary topics discussed were the eventual opening of the Urbana Library branch, the FURL book sales, and exploring [new] ways we can continue to support the library in these trying times. Unsurprisingly, we have determined that FURL will need to be flexible and innovative for the future.

The question everyone is asking is, “when will the library open?” The answer is “we don’t yet know.”

What we do know is that it will not be back to business as usual for quite some time. Frederick County Public Libraries (FCPL) are considering a staggered, or phased, approach for opening. In addition to phased access, the library’s hours may also change.

The tentative plan would include:

Phase 1. Curbside pick-up

Phase 2. Curbside pick-up; limited and reserved computer usage
Phase 3. Metered/ limited capacity access to the public; reserved study rooms
Phase 4. Full access, no restrictions

Obviously, this list could change or be modified any time and is dependent on the final decisions made by FCPL leadership. Additionally, in-person gatherings and programming are cancelled through June, perhaps longer. Returned items will be placed in a 72-hour quarantine, and book donations will not be accepted until the latter phases of reopening.

Another unknown is feasibility of the September 12-13, 2020 book sale. As the stay at home orders went into effect one week before our Spring book sale, we had to cancel one of our biggest annual fundraising events. We now have towers of boxes filled with books. We intend on trying to keep our event date for the Fall book sale, but with so much changing from week to week, we are unsure if, or how, that book sale will take place. Be sure to follow us on Facebook for more details throughout the Summer.

For those wondering, the Summer Reading program is still happening. Launch is scheduled for June 1. However, it will likely be done virtually, so you can log your minutes online. FCPL is still working out the details. Stay tuned to their website for the latest news: www.fcpl.org

I think we can all agree, we miss the library. FURL is ready to help and support the library in any way they need to safely open and resume operations. We elected to skip a June meeting, and our next FURL meeting will be held via Zoom, Wednesday, July 14t h at 6:30 p.m. Thanks for reading!