In-person services will resume at six more Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) locations by Sunday, July 6.
The libraries first closed in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and have been reopening in phases since last month.
Bret Harte and Los Altos Neighborhood Libraries will reopen on Tuesday, July 29 and Ruth Bach, Brewitt, Burnett and Dana Neighborhood Libraries will reopen on Tuesday, July 6.
“We are very excited that nearly all of our libraries will once again be able to welcome residents back in person,” Mayor Robert Garcia said. “Educational and technology resources for our families, students and job seekers are key to fostering our continued growth and recovery as a city. Our libraries play a vital role in providing equitable access.”
Restrictions on computer use and the amount spent inside the library will be lifted on Wednesday, June 30. Seating and study space will also be available at that time, according to a statement from the City.
Beginning in late summer, select services will be offered, such as the Family Learning Center, the Studio at Billie Jean King Main Library and the Learning Lab at Michelle Obama Library.
The Summer Reading Program and other scheduled virtual programs will remain online with in-person programs for youth and teens being planned for late summer.
The El Dorado Neighborhood Library will continue offering LBPL To-Go (contactless pick-up) service due to pending heating, ventilation and air conditioning maintenance.
The Alamitos Neighborhood Library will remain temporarily closed as it undergoes air conditioning maintenance.
“It’s been a long time coming and we are so happy to be able to welcome patrons back inside our buildings,” said Library Services Director Glenda Williams. “We are extremely grateful for the support we’ve received from all our residents who continued to borrow books even while we were closed. Now it’s time to get back to what we do best, which is serve the public and do our part to help the city get back on its feet.”
Facial coverings will be required for unvaccinated individuals two years and older, per the California Department of Public Health guidance.
