SUNDRE — The pandemic protocol induced closure of the local library’s doors was not enough to prevent its wealth of resources from being available to the public.
Staff at the Sundre Municipal Library continue to work diligently, ensuring patrons may still access not only items from an extensive collection that has a regional and even national reach, but also a variety of virtual programs delivered remotely.
And through a curb side service introduced as a result of the pandemic, library card holders can even get the materials they crave — from the latest novels and audiobooks to magazines and comic books — packed up and placed out in front of the library, ready for pick up.
“I appreciate it so much,” said long-time Sundre resident and library cardholder Linnie Kamphuis, who has used the service throughout the duration of the health crisis and most recently picked up an order of items on May 4.
“I love to read,” said Kamphuis, adding the service feels very safe to use courtesy of the steps that are in place to protect the public.
Although she originally sought help from a savvy neighbour as well as library staff in learning how to use the library’s online interface to order items, Kamphuis — who doesn’t exactly consider herself a computer tech — described the system as “very easy to use.”
“If I can do it, anyone can,” she later added.
The curb side service is likely to stay.
“One of the things we’ve realized, is it serves a very real need,” said Karen Tubb, manager.
“We’re delighted to be able to do the curb side. But we sure are looking forward to having people back in the building,” said Tubb.
Yet even once that's finally an option again, Tubb said she anticipates the curb side pickup service will remain available.
“If patrons requested it, we’d certainly continue to do it,” she said. “We’re here to meet the needs of our community.”
Items from the collection can be requisitioned online through the library’s website. Once all of the materials have been selected, staff will proceed to package everything. Then, it’s simply a matter of confirming a time for the patron to come pick up their order so bundles are not left outside too long, she said.
Anyone who needs a hand learning to navigate the library’s website is welcome to call the office for assistance.
“We certainly are happy to help people over the phone,” said Tubb.
Additionally, with gardening season upon us, the seed library returned on May 1 and will depending on supplies remain available until May 21 through the curb side service. This year, patrons have the option to request specific vegetable seeds or a surprise pack of vegetable seeds selected by library staff. There is a limit of 10 seed packages per patron, with options including but not limited to beans, broccoli, carrots, cilantro, cucumbers, dill, lettuce, peas, peppers, pumpkin, radishes, spinach, and tomatoes.
All of these services are offered at no cost, requiring nothing more than a free membership.
Driven by a desire to minimize obstacles and maximize inclusivity, the board decided several years ago to lift membership fees, opting instead for a voluntary approach that leaves patrons with the option to make a contribution.
The library can be reached by calling 403-638-4000, while more information about available services and programs can be found by visiting sundre.prl.ab.ca.
