Cooper-Siegel Community Library beginning curbside delivery, other services

Cooper-Siegel Community Library is working on a plan to introduce limited services in June that will include curbside delivery.

Executive director Jill McConnell said the staff is eager to get back into the building along Fox Chapel Road and help connect patrons with books, videos and programs provided at the site.

“Our patrons have been very supportive and understanding of the careful steps we need to take to make sure they and our staff remain safe and healthy,” she said.

Curbside pick-up and return services are scheduled to begin the week of June 15 at both the Fox Chapel and Sharpsburg branches.

Times are noon to 6 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays in Sharpsburg; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Fridays and Saturdays and 1 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays in Fox Chapel.

During the state-mandated coronavirus-related shutdown, the library has offered a slew of online programs that include book clubs, writing contests and other programs for all ages.

This week, there are foreign language classes, a virtual LEGO club and meditation.

McConnell said remote programming has maintained high engagement, especially story times and STEAM projects for young children.

“In April, we averaged about 30 participants at each of our children’s programs and 28 at our adult programs,” she said.

Cooper-Siegel, and other members of the Allegheny County Library Association, will continue online programming while initial on-site offerings begin.

McConnell said her staff is busy preparing to reopen, and is

“We have ordered large quantities of disposable gloves and masks for our staff,” she said, “along with disinfectant and hand sanitizer.”