Illinois

Limited Computer Access Returns To Peoria Public Library

WCBU | By Dana Vollmer

Published June 17, 2020 at 4:20 PM CDT

Limited computer and internet access is now available at the Peoria Public Library's Lincoln (pictured here) and McClure branches.

The Peoria Public Library is slowly revving back up services, after COVID-19 guidance forced buildings to close to the public.

The curbside pick-up program launched last month has proven popular. Patrons can now schedule time to use the library's computers.

Reservations for 90-minute sessions are available starting at 9:15 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at the McClure and Lincoln branches. Walk-ups are also accepted, if computers are open.

The program launched last Friday. Executive Director Randall Yelverton said a fair number of patrons have already turned out. Eight people used computers at the McClure branch on the first day. That number doubled to 16 on the second day.

“They’re doing resume preparation, looking for jobs,” he said. “They’re using the computers to fill out government assistance paperwork, as well. And then we just have an array of folks who are doing some casual internet stuff that maybe they haven’t been able to do, because they haven’t been able to get into the library in a while.”

Appointments also include up to 20 free pages of printing. Patrons must wear a face covering at all times and cannot access other areas of the library.

Yelverton said while they’re happy to be able to offer internet access again, some services are still suffering during the pandemic — for example, the library's meeting rooms.

“Being able to come into the library and gather with others, using this free meeting space, is hugely valuable to our community,” he said. “We are examining ways that we can do that safely, but we know that we are missing out.”

Yelverton said the sharing of materials between other central Illinois libraries was temporarily put on hold, limiting access to the wide array of titles usually available to patrons. But he said that system will be back up and running soon.

More information and updates on the Peoria Public Library’s services during the COVID-19 crisis is available on the library’s website and Facebook page.

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