By CARZ NELSON
For updated information on Hennepin County Library services during the Coronavirus Pandemic, visit www.hclib.org. All information is accurate as of January 15 2021.
PROGRAMS FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
This February HCLib is hosting virtual programs for Black history month, in partnership with the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum & Gallery (MAAHMG). In addition to films that address the arts in social justice movements, there will be panels with community leaders.
LIBRARY UPDATES:
East Lake Library Grab&Go
East Lake Library, located at 2727 E. Lake St., reopened on December 27. The building was damaged during the uprising and had been closed for rehab and repair. The library is now available for Grab and Go service
Sunday 12-5 PM; Mon, Tues, Thurs 9 AM to 5 PM Wednesday 12-8 PM.
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 Computer Hours
Tues & Weds ”“ 9 AM to 5 PM
Thursday ”“ Noon to 8 PM
Friday & Sat ”“ 9 AM to 5 PM
Sunday & Monday ”“ Closed
Grab & Go Library Service at Hosmer Library
Hosmer Library, 347 E 36 th 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 Wifi Available at Franklin & 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 612-543-8850 Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
Expanded Hours for Libary Social Worker
A social worker is available outside the library at Franklin Library Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 AM ”“ 5 PM, East Lake Library Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 AM-5 PM.
Basic needs (clothing, food, meals, shelter)
Chemical Health
Disability Services
Education & Employment
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 access downloadable ebooks and audiobooks.
Cloud Library
Downloadable ebooks for readers of all ages. A reader app is available for Apple, Android and other devices.
Online Services
Go to the library without leaving home. Here are just a few of the 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 Us: Have a reference or library account question? Call, text, chat with, or email a library worker.
www.hclib.org/contact
Call 612-543-KNOW (5669) to reach library staff by phone.
Mon to Thurs ”“ 9 AM to 9 PM
Friday & Sat ”“ 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.
