The Capital Area District Library system will allow patrons to come inside to use computers starting today.
All 13 CADL libraries are accepting appointments for computer use only. Since March, library buildings have been closed to the public while offering curbside checkout and returns.
Though some patrons need access to computers, CADL executive director Scott Duimstra says others have devices but no internet access. He says they’re working on providing stronger wifi signals that will reach outside the buildings. “You can still use it in our parking lots," Duimstra explains, "but we kind of want to get it boosted farther out into the parking lots or kind of some other areas next to the library so if you have your own technology, you can definitely pull into our parking lot and use our wifi access.”
Laptops are also included in items that can be checked out.
There’s a limit of 25-percent of a building’s capacity at any one time, including staff. According to Duimstra, "we had to get things like sneeze guards set up around our desks to ensure public and staff safety, signage in our branches, and then also figure out a way on how we could safely offer technical support to individuals who needed it, and so we have all that in place.”
Computers inside the libraries are spaced at least six feet apart, and masks are required. Appointments are required, and patrons will have 45 minutes with a computer. Users should come alone, though those under the age of 13 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.