Curbside Pickup Service

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We are implementing phase three in our reopening plan. This latest phase will allow Library cardholders access to physical library materials and restore interlibrary loan services.

Starting on May 14, Library staff will begin offering limited hours for curbside pickup of hold items. Cardholders will be able to put items on hold at joplinpubliclibrary.org or by calling the Library. Items will be ready 24 hours after they are put on hold.

This new service will operate between the hours of 10 am to 2 pm, Monday through Saturday.

When users arrive at the Library a library staff member will verify their library card number and bring the items to the vehicle.

To provide overall safety, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Enter the Library parking lot from the 20th Street entrance
  • Once in the lot, enter the circle drive from the east entrance only
  • Stay in your car
  • Have your Library card out and ready
  • Return all previously checked out items using the exterior book drop
  • Keep book donations at home; they will not be accepted during this time
  • Do not use this service if you are not feeling well

Hold items will already be checked out to the users before they arrive, to streamline the pickup process.  All due dates have been extended by seven days to accommodate this.

Phone reference will be available during curbside pickup hours, and users continue to have 24 hours access to the Library’s online resources, including eBooks, eAudiobooks, online resources and learning tools.

Library staff cannot sanitize every item that is checked out, but will quarantine returned items for a minimum of 24 hours before checking in and reshelving.  It is recommended that Library users wash their hands after handling library materials and avoid touching their face.

Library staff and the Board of Trustees will continue to monitor the situation and adjust services and phases as needed to protect Library staff and the community.  Stay up-to-date by following the Library’s Facebook page and visiting the website.

Reopening of Book Drop

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Joplin Public Library remains temporarily closed due to the coronavirus pandemic; however, Library staff are making plans to reopen some services.

The first phase in the process began May 5, with administrative and custodial staff returning to work full-time in the building. They have been readying the building, training on implementing upcoming phases and purchasing necessary supplies.

Phase two, which allows the opening of the Library’s book drop is coming soon. On Monday, May 11, the exterior book drop will be reopened to allow Library users to return their books and most other library materials.

The book drop will remain open until further notice, and upon return, all Library materials will be put through a 24-hour quarantine process.

Library material due dates have been extended until May 29; giving Library users several weeks to return items. Social distancing guidelines should be observed while returning items.

The Library will remain closed to the public until further notice, but online offerings are still available and non-cardholders can register online at joplinpubliclibrary.org for a temporary card to gain digital access.

“Our digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, magazines, movies, music, and research tools are available through the Library’s website 24 hours a day,” said Jeana Gockley, the Joplin Public Library director.

Stay informed about upcoming phases by following the Library’s Facebook page and checking the website for updates.