Mt. Pleasant library reopens to the public with time, occupancy limits

The Mt. Pleasant Public Library reopened Monday with a building occupancy limit of 20 people, according to director Brian Dawson.

The amount of time patrons can be inside the library is limited as a result — 30 minutes for browsing the shelves and one hour for computer use. A curbside pickup service of books and DVDs that started in June remains available.

Appointments for visiting the library are recommended but not necessary. Face masks are required inside the building.

Facilities across the region have been resuming services after being shut down since mid-March over concerns about the coronavirus pandemic. The Office of Commonwealth Libraries advised local facilities to reopen in some capacity by the end of June.

During the closure, the Mt. Pleasant library has increased its selection of e-books and e-audio books, which have gained popularity. Computer use has been available by appointment since August and virtual story time programs have been enacted.

Plastic barriers have been placed around the circulation desk and tables and chairs have been removed, Dawson said. The library is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To make an appointment, call 724-547-3850.

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries has provided guidance for libraries based on the three-tiered reopening phase system introduced by state officials. The green phase, which Westmoreland County has been in since June, allows library directors and boards to make their own decision about reopening plans while following social distancing and building capacity and safety measures, according to the guidance.