WESTFIELD-More services are being resumed weekly at the Westfield Athenaeum, according to Director Kate Deviny.
“The Westfield Athenaeum is open and offering more services,” said Deviny, adding that computer use is now available by appointment.
Athenaeum staffers are working weekdays from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. to answer questions, take orders or schedule appointments over the phone, noted Becky Blackburn, public services librarian.
The Westfield Athenaeum’s Reference Department offers computer, printer, scanner and fax machine services. (BECKY BLACKBURN PHOTO)
“Due to social distancing restrictions, computer assistance is very limited,” said Blackburn.
Blackburn noted that tutorials are provided on the computer desktops and patrons who require assistance are asked to bring someone to their appointment who can work with them.
“They need to tell the librarian they are bringing someone when they make their appointment,” said Blackburn.
Computer appointments are available Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. – noon and 1 – 3 p.m., and on Fridays from 1 – 3 p.m. and 4 – 5 p.m.
“Computer appointments are for either one or two hours,” said Blackburn, adding there are five computers available at this time.
Patrons are also reminded that in addition to using computers, printing, scanning and faxing services are also offered in the Reference Department.
“Faxes are 25 cents a page to send and we cannot receive faxes for patrons,” said Blackburn, adding, “Printing is 25 cents per page for black and white and 50 cents for color, and scanning is free.”
A unique browsing service for patrons who want to peruse the library shelves is also available and 25-minute appointments can be made. Browsing appointments are offered on Mondays from 1 – 5 p.m., Wednesdays from 2 – 6:30 p.m., and on Fridays from 9 a.m. – noon.
Blackburn noted the Library-To-Go program during the pandemic has been widely used.
“The Library-To-Go program has been incredibly successful,” said Blackburn. “We have served over 1,400 patrons so far with this service alone.”
Library-To-Go is designed for patrons who prefer to order items ahead and pick them up outside. The program is offered Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., and Fridays from 1 – 5:30 p.m.
After Sept. 1, Library-To-Go hours will be slightly changed to Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Fridays from 1 – 5 p.m.
“No appointment is necessary since this is a drop-in pickup at our west entrance,” said Blackburn.
For more information on the range of services offered to area residents, call (413) 568-7833 or visit www.westath.org.
