Sacramento Public Library launches pilot program for curbside pickup of books and more

Almost everything is shifting toward online service and ease-of-access during the coronavirus pandemic, from restaurant service to public education.

Now, the Sacramento Public Library is joining in with a new pilot program that offers curbside pickup of library materials via online appointments.

Only two branch locations offer the service for now: Belle Cooledge Library in South Land Park and Sylvan Oaks Library in Citrus Heights.

Books and other media can be selected in the Sacramento Public Library’s online catalog. If you place desired items on hold, library staff will contact you when they are available for pickup.

Since only the Sylvan Oaks and Belle Cooledge branches are offering the service, items must be located at either library for pickup. Other locations cannot transfer materials to these branches.

Once you get your items, you can hang onto them for six weeks. Fines will not apply to any materials picked up from the libraries.

Although book drop-off containers will not be available, there are designated receptacles where materials can be returned.

All materials will be placed into quarantine for 72 hours after they are returned, and library staff will be provided with protective gear.

“We are working to expand curbside service to as many branches as soon as possible and in a safe, coordinated and phased effort,” the Sacramento Public Library said in an FAQ. “Once we fine-tune curbside pickup at these pilot locations, we will expand to more branches in a phased approach.”

Sylvan Oaks and Belle Cooledge will be open for curbside pickup and returns Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m.

For more information, visit the Sacramento Public Library’s FAQ webpage.