Santa Ynez Valley libraries now reopened in limited capacity
By Raiza Giorgi · Tue Jun 15 2021
Staff Report
After almost 15 months of being closed to the public, the Goleta, Solvang and Buellton library branches reopened in limited capacity for Express Service starting June 2.
“Our library staff have been working hard to prepare for this day,” Library Director Allison Gray said. “While we are thrilled to reopen, we want to remind the public that masks are required to enter the libraries. Also, please be patient as we continue to provide both Sidewalk Service and Express Service. We will gradually increase our hours and the number of people allowed in the buildings. We look forward to pre-pandemic levels of service soon.”
Express Service library hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The hours are the same as Sidewalk Service, which will remain open. Please note, the entire library will be open at all three branches except for the restrooms. Each branch will operate a little differently – you can find information below on your branch:
- Goleta Library: Patrons will be allowed in on a first-come, first-served basis and will have 15 minutes to spend inside picking out material and checking it out on a self-checkout machine, using an Express computer, and/or browsing the Friends of the Library Book Sale. Up to 25 people will be allowed in at a time.
- Solvang Library: This branch will accommodate up to six people at a time. There will be a limited number of public computers available. Solvang Library will take reservations 24 hours in advance on the library website (https://tinyurl.com/SolvangExpressService) and via telephone at 805-688-4214.
- Buellton Library: The Buellton branch will accommodate up to five patrons at a time. This branch will also follow a first-come, first-served basis. Patrons can also call the Buellton Library at 805-688-3115 if other accommodations are needed.
Patrons who choose to come inside the library must wear a mask (ages 2 and over) and maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others. There will also be gloves and hand sanitizer available at the entrance.
Sidewalk Service will remain open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for those who want to quickly grab their holds without entering the building. All programming will continue to be held online only. Click here for the library Events Calendar.
For now, the material available to check out, whether in-person or through Sidewalk Service, will continue to only be from the Goleta, Solvang or Buellton branches. Black Gold Service will resume sometime in July. We will keep you posted.