Come On In... We're OPEN!

Questions About COVID-19 and the Library
The library will look and operate in a different way as we reopen the building to the public. We hope to offer friendly and helpful library services while doing our best to keep the community safe. Thank you for your patience, cooperation, and ongoing support.

Library hours, starting July 6 th
  • Mon-Thurs: 9:30am - 8:00pm
  • Friday: 9:30am - 5:00pm
  • Saturday: 9:30am - 3:00pm
  • Sunday: 12:00pm - 4:00pm
* 9:30 - 10:30 AM Monday through Saturday designated for vulnerable populations for this first week.

How will our library visit be different during the time of COVID-19?   When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a staff member to create a safe visit for all. When entering the building, patrons over 2 years of age must wear a mask or face covering and follow physical distancing guidelines.

What if I cannot wear a face covering/mask for medical reasons? Or I don’t want to come into the library at this time? Please call us at 847-683-4490, and we will be happy to make accommodations for you.

Is there a limit to how many people can visit the library at a time?   We have a limit of 30 patrons in the library at a time in order to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19. We also ask that you keep your visit as brief as possible.

What else is the library doing to increase safety?   The safety of our community and our staff is our top priority. Here are the actions we are taking:
  • Clear shields have been installed along our Front Desk providing a barrier to the spread of COVID-19.
  • The Book Drop at the Library is available for contact-free return of all materials. Staff will not be accepting items by hand inside the library.
  • We’ve installed a “touchless” Self Checkout unit for your convenience.
  • We will continue to quarantine returned materials for 72 hours; no overdue fines will be accessed at this time.
  • We have increased the thoroughness and frequency of cleaning.
  • Hand sanitizer is available throughout the library.
  • Seating, toys, and games are temporarily in storage.
  • One restroom is dedicated for patron use.
  • Six-foot markers – X -- have been placed in high traffic areas.
  • Available computers are spaced 6 feet apart.

Do you have a special time for vulnerable populations to visit?   When we first reopen, members of vulnerable populations will be given first priority Monday – Saturday, 9:30 – 10:30 AM. Beginning Monday, July 13 th , Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays will be designated for vulnerable populations.

Can I return materials at the book drops in Pingree Grove and Burlington? Because of the need to quarantine all returned materials, we’re limiting returned materials to the book drop at the library.
Digital Library Services:
Can I still access digital library materials?  Yes!    We encourage you to explore the digital library with your library card. Find  eBooks, movies, music, magazines, and more . If you have questions, please  contact us .

Can I access online learning resources?  Yes!    There's so much waiting for you. Get started  learning, finding, researching, and creating .
Library Card and Account:
I don't have a library card. Can I get one?   To be eligible for a library card, a person must be a resident of the Ella Johnson Memorial Public Library District and be at least 5 years of age. Identification and proof of residency (such as a recent bill with your address on it) are required at the time a library card is issued.

How do I place holds on items? Through the online catalog, you can place holds on items. Please  manage your holds online  and cancel items you no longer want. We will notify you when items are ready for pickup.
Library Programs and Events:
My kids miss storytime. What can we do to pass the time?   We miss all of our friends too, and can't wait to have our programs in person again! Until then, check out our online event calendar. We will continue to host programs on our YouTube channel and have Take and Make project throughout the summer. We also have a "Dear Friend" program. Grab a postcard from the library and fill out your child's information. Drop the postcard into the cupcake mailbox and your child will receive a personalized letter addressed to them via the USPS. Feel free to reach out regarding any individual questions: hswanson@ellajohnsonlibrary.org 

When will the Library begin in-person programs again?  Our Community Room will be used for quarantining materials for the foreseeable future. We would love to meet in person, but for the current time, we hope you will join us for our  online programs . 

Will the teen volunteer program be available this summer?  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, as well as the need to use our spaces for quarantining materials, the teen volunteer program has been suspended for the summer. 

What adult programming will be offered this summer? During July we will have a  BYOB book club  on Fridays at 4:30 PM. Our  Crafter's Circle  will take place at the end of the month, format To Be Determined. The  Adult Book Club  will meet on Zoom on Thursday August 6th at 6 PM; we are reading  The Lost Book of Adana Moreau by Michael Zapata. Find more information on upcoming events  here !
How do I receive information on library-related news and events?  Please visit our website,  sign up for our eNewsletter , and check the library's Facebook for updates. Questions? Email  library@ellajohnsonlibrary.org or call us during open hours. 

While it's not the same as before the pandemic, we're happy to welcome you back to the library! Please tell us how we can serve you better.