Ultimately, the announcement for increased capacity at libraries caught many by surprise.  Previously, libraries were included in Step Three of the provinces relaunch and were moved unexpectedly into Step Two.

“It makes me kind of happy and proud of our profession because we know there's a need out there…To hear the Premier say ‘we've had people asking’ makes us feel like our role in society is somewhat important and justified, even though it's not essential,” explained Christina Petrisor, Head Librarian at the Mary C. Moore Public Library in Lacombe.

The Mary C. Moore Public Library will be opening but in a very limited way. Library members will now be able to book an hour at one of the library’s computers but readers will not be able to browse the shelves just yet. Petrisor says one of the library staff would be happy to do your browsing for you and find books based on your interests. For book requests based on interests, she recommends emailing mcmp@prl.ab.ca.

“It's a bit disappointing for our regular clientele. It has been since March 17th 2020. We are continuing to be vigilant in keeping our book collection closed just simply because it's 10,000 square feet. We don't want to be following around our members while they're looking for items that are possibly personal and other things,” explained Petrisor.

She says another reason behind a very restricted public opening is because no staff have been vaccinated as of yet.

“We're going to toe the line because we have probably about 50 per cent senior staff who have not been vaccinated yet but that matters,” added the librarian.

People are welcome to come to the library, book computer time, get a membership, or continue to browse books online. They also have face masks available for the public.

Petrisor can’t wait to see smiling faces back in the library once again. She misses having the library be available as a community hub for the residents of Lacombe. One thing that she has noted has been especially difficult with an extended lockdown has been helping people with electronic devices.

“When you have a person, or a senior, or any age person that says ‘ I need help with this device,” we can't help them. We've been so hands on in being able to go over to our own system, computer systems and worksite stations and assist people. It is so difficult having to say to someone ‘I can't come in with that two meters,’ and having to redefine how we're going to be able to assist people moving forward,” said Petrisor.

New Services 

Recently, the library has also partnered with the Lacombe and District Family Community Support Services to be able to loan out four iPads to seniors aged 55 years or older for up to 28 days.

“It's got some preloaded items on there and it gives seniors an opportunity to not only try technology, but possibly connect within their own home or anywhere else with family members that also may have this technology,” added Petrisor.

Items from the library’s makerspace are being prepared to be loaned out to people’s homes as well.