By CARZ NELSON
Things can change fast. For updated information on Hennepin County Library services during the coronavirus pandemic, visit www.hclib.org. All information is accurate as of February 12, 2021.
East Lake Library
East Lake Library, located at 2727 E. Lake St., is open for Grab and Go service Sunday 12-5 PM; Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9 AM to 5 PM; and Wednesday 12-8 PM.
Franklin LibraryÂ
Franklin Library, 1413 E Franklin Ave., is open for computer use only. Call (612) 543-6925 to make an appointment. The building will remain locked, but staff will let you in at your appointment time. Masks are required and will be provided if you do not bring one. Because of social distancing, staff will be unable to offer computer assistance. You will have access to a desktop computer, Internet, and printing. You will need to bring your own headphones. At this time, Franklin Library is open for computer use ONLY. Other areas and services, including book/DVD checkout, are not available. Returns are accepted during staffed service hours.
Franklin Library Computer Hours Â
Tuesday & Wednesday ”“ 9 AM to 5 PM
Thursday ”“ Noon to 8 PMÂ
Friday & Saturday ”“ 9 AM to 5 PM
Sunday & Monday ”“ ClosedÂ
Hosmer Library
Hosmer Library, 347 E 36th St., is open for retrieving holds, limited browsing of materials, checking out items, returning library materials, quick reference support, computer appointments and printing. Meeting rooms, study rooms, children”™s play areas, and lounges will not be available for use at this time. Masks are required and will be provided if you don”™t bring one. Check the library website for up-to-date service information and hours.
Due Dates Extended
Due dates for physical materials continue to be automatically extended. You are not required to return materials at this time. Libraries are accepting returns during staffed service hours only. Items will be removed from your account after a three-day quarantine.
Outdoor Wi-Fi Available at Franklin and Hosmer Libraries
Free Wi-Fi is available in the parking lots and grounds of several Hennepin County libraries, including Franklin and Hosmer. Library staff can help you find the best signal.
Homework Help
Live, virtual tutors are available through Help Now www.hclib.org/programs/homework-help.
At Home Service
At Home service is provided free of charge to Hennepin County residents who can”™t get to a library due to illness, disability, or visual impairment. To apply for At Home service, submit an online application or apply by phone at 612-543-8850 Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
Library Social WorkersÂ
A social worker is available outside Franklin Library on Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 AM ”“ 5 PM, and at East Lake Library Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 AM-5 PM.
Basic needs (clothing, food, meals, shelter)
Chemical Health
Disability Services
Education & Employment Resources
Hennepin County Benefits
Housing
A listening ear
Mental Health Resources
Transportation
E-Books and Audiobooks
Libby:Available for iOS and Android devices; use the app to download ebooks and audiobooks.Â
Cloud Library:Download ebooks for readers of all ages. A reader app for Apple, Android and other devices is available.
Online Services
Go to the library without leaving home. Here are just a few of the many services available at www.hclib.org:
Tools for job searches
Ancestry Library Edition and other resources to research family history
Local music on MNspin
Ask the Library
Have a reference or library account question? Call, text, chat with, or email a library worker.Â
www.hclib.org/contact
Call 612-543-KNOW (5669) to reach library staff by phone.
Monday to Thursday ”“ 9 AM to 9 PM
Friday & Saturday ”“ 9 AM to 5 PM
Sunday ”“ Noon to 5 PM
Español/Spanish: Llame o envie un texto al 651-503-8013 para recibir ayuda en español.
Hmoob/Hmong: Hu losis text rau lub tsev nyeem ntawv ntawm 612-385-0886 txais kev pab hais lus Hmoob.
Soomaali/Somali: Caawimaad Soomaali ah, soo wac ama qoraal (text) usoo dir maktabada 612-235-1339.
Carz is a Phillips resident and an enthusiastic patron of Hennepin County Library.
