Indian Trails Library closes to public entry, March 14-29; many services still available
The Indian Trails Public Library will close its main library, 355 Schoenbeck, Wheeling; and its branch, 99 E. Palatine Rd., Prospect Heights; March 14-29, in an effort to avoid spreading the Coronavirus by reducing the gathering of groups.
Following the decision of school districts served by the library, including CCSD21, District 96, District 23, District 214 and Stevenson High School to close for the last two weeks of March, the library determined the increase of visitors coming into the library would be counterproductive to health recommendations to follow social distancing.
"We know when schools are out we see an increase in foot traffic throughout the day," said Brian Shepard, executive director. "In keeping with current recommendations from local and national health organizations, we decided by closing the building to public entry, we could help slow the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19)."
Although the library buildings will be closed for public entry starting Saturday, March 14, staff will be onsite and continue to provide assistance either by phone or via email.
"We want to continue to provide the best service we can, and that is why staff will be here to answer calls, deliver requested hold material at the drive-up window, register members for programs or help with reference questions," Shepard said.
All online services, such as downloadable, streaming and learning resources, will be available remotely with an Indian Trails Library card. Materials can be returned to the library in the outside book drops, although Shepard noted that material will automatically renew and there are no fines for late material, should people wish to stay home.
The library canceled all public programs March 13 through the end of March to avoid large groups of people in the library.
The main library is also a polling place and will open for voting access March 17. The main doors will be open for access to the polling place.
Members can call (847) 459-4100 or visit www.itpld.org for the latest information.
About the Library
The Indian Trails Public Library District was founded in 1958 and serves 67,000 people in the communities of Wheeling, Buffalo Grove, Prospect Heights, Arlington Heights and Northbrook.