(TOMS RIVER, NJ) -- The Ocean County Library has announced its plans to reopen on July 6. The Governor recently permitted libraries the ability to reopen at 25% capacity beginning July 2nd. The library has developed a phased reopening plan to provide service in the safest way possible. 

Returns: The library will open book drops at all OCL locations beginning Monday, June 29th. All materials returned will be quarantined for the recommended length of time set by public health officials, after which they will be checked in and added back to our collection. Overdue fines will not accrue on materials during this time. 

Hours of Operation: Beginning Monday, July 6th, libraries will open with limited hours and services.  Toms River, Barnegat, Berkeley, Brick, Jackson, Lacey, Lakewood, Little Egg Harbor, Long Beach Island, Manchester, Plumsted, Point Boro, Stafford and Upper  Shores branches will be open:  Monday through Thursday 10:00am – 2:00pm, and 3:00pm to 7:00pm; Friday and Saturday 10:00am – 2:00pm. Bay Head, Beachwood, Island Heights, Point Beach, Tuckerton, Waretown and Whiting branches will be open:  Monday 10:00am – 2:00pm, and 3:00pm – 7:00pm; Tuesday through Saturday 10:00am – 2:00pm 

Pick-up of Materials: Beginning on Monday, July 6th contactless pickup of materials will be available, using  self-pick up holds and self-check kiosks. Please remember to bring your library card to use the kiosks. Additionally, short-term browsing will be allowed; we ask that you are mindful of those wishing to use the library and limit your time spent in our libraries due to the limited 25% capacity. 

Access to Computers: Libraries will provide access to public PCs by appointment. Due to the limited number of PCs available to provide social distancing, computer use will be reduced to one half hour per day. The library encourages people to take advantage of their mobile printing service so your library visit is as streamlined as possible. 

Public Spaces: Seating will be limited to allow for social distancing. At this time, their meeting rooms and quiet study areas will be utilized for the quarantining of materials. All in-person programs and events are suspended. 

All customers will be required to wear face masks and to adhere to social distancing guidelines. 

In the coming weeks, they look forward to sharing more details and announcing exact dates on when they will resume our full complement of services. In the meantime, please continue to engage with them virtually through their website, which provides access to online resources, streaming movies, ebooks, and audio ebooks 24/7.

For more information, visit www.theoceancountylibrary.org.