What a long strange trip it’s been…and will continue to be!

Since the statewide closures, BHML has connected patrons to digital books and content, collected dozens of poems by local poets through the POETRY NOW project, shared virtual storytimes and remote reference; now, BHML is excited to reconnect patrons with the library’s *physical* collection.

Beginning June 2, we will offer curbside pickup service. Library members will be able to request Boothbay Harbor Library-owned materials using the online catalog (or by phone/email) and we will pack them up for you and arrange a pick up time.

Providing this service in the safest possible way while adhering to state and CDC guidelines is our number one priority. Your cooperation and understanding are essential as we navigate this new lending model! Patrons are welcome to start browsing the online catalog and placing requests now, however we won’t begin scheduling pickup times until June arrives.

From everyone at Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library: we hope all is well with you and yours. We can’t wait to see (the top of) people’s faces again!

Happy Spring,

Joanna M. Breen, Executive Director

Curbside Pickup Service By Appointment, Beginning June 2

Here’s How…It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:

1) Request your items. *Items must be available at BHML. Help us preserve PPE and bagging materials: please request multiple items at a time and limit trips.

• Search and request online at https://minerva.maine.edu/search~S8
• Request items by phone at 207-633-3112, or
• Send email requests to curbside@bbhlibrary.org

2) BHML staff will call you to schedule your pickup within two business days of your requests (beginning June 2).

3) Arrive at BHML at your appointed time to pick up your items. We ask that patrons please note signage and follow all instructions. Social distancing and masks required.

Learn more about how to request BHML owned items.

CURBSIDE FAQ:

Please note, appointments and pickups will not begin to be scheduled until June 2.

Q: When can I pick up my items?

A: BHML staff will call you to schedule a pickup time. Unfortunately, no walk-up or unscheduled contact is allowed at this time. All items must be pre-requested. Pickup times will be offered on the following days and hours:

Tuesday: 10:00 AM – Noon AND 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: Noon – 2:00 PM AND 5:00 PM – 6:45 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – Noon AND 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – Noon AND 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – Noon

Q: How long will it take to get my items?

A: BHML staff run a pull list every morning. We will contact you within 2 business days of your request for items to schedule a pickup time.

Q: How do I know if BHML owns the item(s) I want?

A: Start your search in the Minerva Catalog using this link https://minerva.maine.edu/search~S8 to pre-limit the search to BHML materials. Or, use these instructions to limit your online search to BHML materials: https://bbhlibrary.org/how-to-request-items-using-the-minerva-catalog/. If you have trouble, feel free to reach out!

Q: Can I order books from other libraries?

A: Not at this time. Currently, requests can be made on BHML owned materials only. BHML always wants to hear your suggestions for future purchases: https://bbhlibrary.org/services/suggest-a-purchase/

Q: How many items can I request?

A: For now, 10 items total (including max of 7 DVDs and 7 audiobooks)

Q: What if I can’t pick up my items at my scheduled time?

A: Let us know as soon as possible so that we can reschedule your pickup time. Please do not just drop by. If you have not made contact in the 1 week following your missed appointment, we will re-shelve your items. We are not allowing unscheduled pickups.

Q: I don’t have a library card, how do I get one?

A: We are happy to mail you a library card. Please fill out the form at: https://bbhlibrary.org/library-card-registration-form/ or call 207-633-3112.

Q: Is curbside service going to be available all summer?

A: Yes, unless federal, state, or local guidelines change or there is a surge in Covid-19 cases in the State of Maine. If necessary to keep everyone safe, closing the library at any time is at the discretion of the Executive Director.

Q: What safety measures are in place?

A: For curbside service the BHML staff will be following the CDC guidelines for social distancing and wearing masks and gloves while preparing your items for pick-up. All items will be packed into clean bags and marked with the name of the person picking up, with social distance procedures and signage directing pickup. Cleaning and sanitizing procedures will be strictly adhered to. All returned items will be quarantined for a minimum 7 days. We ask that you help us too, by wearing masks, staying in your car until you are waived on to get your bag of items, and maintaining 6 feet of social distancing at all times between other people.

Special thanks to the following organizations and businesses for helping us with the supplies necessary to lend library materials as safely as possible!