DESPITE being closed to the public due to COVID-19, the Millicent Public Library remains open for business through innovative virtual programs and a click and collect service.
Library manager Janice Nitschke and her staff have devised innovative ways to continue an important service to the community.
Ms Nitschke said the mandated library closures had been anticipated, with staff immediately enacting measures to provide users access to resources.
“Our patrons are able to ring us on 8733 0903, visit the library’s front door and ring the intercom and email us library@wattlerange.sa.gov.au,” she said.
“We are able to accommodate their requests by opening up our physical collections.
“We also are offering virtual services and digital content to our communities, many who are confined to their homes and need this access now more than ever.
“Access to the eLibrary has increased by over 50pc and we have just agreed to place more money into purchasing e-Resources to accommodate this increase.”
Ms Nitschke said the click and collect online borrowing method had increased over the last two weeks, with an average of 50 people using the service each day.
She said the Thursday before Easter was exceptional at the Millicent Public Library with more than 60 visits and 30 phone calls.
Photocopying and print services remain available, with people able to email the library or use it by demand.
“Twice a week we post a bounce and rhyme session on social media along with a story and activity,” Ms Nitschke said.
“The library has had an exceptional 1343 people view the story time, 2591 people view the bounce and rhyme and 2044 view the information about these new library services.
“We prepare activity packs to go with the story time sessions and these are suitable for pre-schoolers and junior primary children.”
Ms Nitschke said staff had been reviewing other opportunities to engage with the community during the pandemic.
“The library’s resources are being increased every day with new books and DVDs being purchased from Adelaide and local sources,” she said.
“We know our borrowers like to make use of these new materials.”
