When Needed Most: Operating Despite COVID-19
Scottsdale Public Library, Ariz.
Innovation Synopsis
As libraries closed due to COVID-19, SPL decided not to cut off access to any part of its entire collection — digital and physical. Drive-thru windows remained open with additions of plexiglass barriers and staff processes to increase safety. Remote access services including library card registrations and library card renewals were rapidly evolved.
Challenge/Opportunity
For several weeks, SPL was the only library system in the Phoenix metro area with access to a physical collection. At a time when socially distant activities were a necessity, libraries housed endless resources to promote these activities. These activities go beyond reading and include learning, training, cooking, building, creation and more through the information found in a public library collection. Economic stability unraveled in many households as unemployment climbed furthering the needs for these resources.
Key Elements of Innovation
- Outfitting the drive-thru windows with plexiglass and distance stickers.
- Changing staff procedures to include PPE, disinfecting workstations in between shifts and six feet distance requirements.
- Quarantining returned item materials for 72 hours before making them available to reserve.
- Rapidly implementing online library card registration and library card renewal services online without losing the integrity of identity verification.
Achieved Outcomes
Patrons never lost access to the physical collection.
- 2,233 library cards were registered from April–October 2020 online; 629 of those cardholders resided outside of Scottsdale.
- 2,293 library cards were renewed online from May–October 2020.
- 113,972 cars visited our windows or curbside from April-October 2020.
