Blaine and other WCLS libraries are now open for browsing by appointment

The Blaine Library and other Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) buildings opened to the public on November 2 with limited hours and 25 percent capacity. At the Blaine branch, that means 10 patrons are allowed in at a time, said Mary Vermillion, WCLS community relations manager.

The Blaine Library is open by appointment from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Saturday. It will continue to offer curbside services with library materials in “to-go” bags from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

WCLS recommends that patrons call the library to make a reservation before visiting. The library will try to accommodate those without appointments, but they may need to wait outside. Appointments are scheduled in 15-minute increments and visitors are encouraged to limit the length of their stay.

Library patrons will notice some other changes as well. The library has removed its lounge seating and early-learning toys for children. Public water fountains are shut off and staff will sanitize computer keyboards, mice and touchscreens between users and frequently sanitize high-touch areas.

Everyone over the age of two is required to wear a facemask that covers their nose and mouth at all times and patrons must maintain six feet of space between themselves and others.

Anyone who doesn’t comply with WCLS’s guidelines will be asked to leave, it said in a press release.

All WCLS libraries have been closed to the public since March 16. Governor Jay Inslee loosened rules on libraries on October 6, allowing them to open at 25 percent capacity for counties in the second phase of the state’s Safe Start plan.

Inslee eased restrictions on a variety of other activities that same day, including permitting alcohol sales in bars until 11 p.m., rather than 10 p.m., for counties in phase 2, and allowing restaurants to seat as many as six at a table.

The re-opening includes all WCLS library branches. Bellingham Central Library started a remodel this summer and will remain closed to the public.