A Look Back at the Library’s COVID-19 Response

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A month-by-month timeline of how the Library responded during the COVID-19 pandemic

A Look Back

A Look Back at Library Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Due to COVID-19, March 13, 2020, is the Library's last day open to the public. On March 16, 2020, within a few days of closing, the Library launches SPL.org/StayingHome, promoting all the digital resources it has available to newly homebound Seattle residents. On March 25, 2020, the Library's Circulation staff launch our first-ever digital Library card.
Library launches virtual programming - Thrilling Tales and Story Times. Five Library branches begin providing restroom access to the public.
Phone service reinstated. Library Link expands to provide digital access to all SPS students and teachers.
Phone service reinstated. Library Link expands to provide digital access to all SPS students and teachers.
Library begins accepting material returns. Mobile Services on the road again. Curbside services begin at 7 locations.
Library launches Peak Picks at Curbside. Virtual tutoring launched.
Curbside service expands to 11 locations. Library begins providing free printing services at Curbside locations.
Museum Pass returns. Curbside service expands to 15 locations. Library employees become eligible for COVID-19 vaccine.
Quarantine period for circulating materials reduced from 48 to 24 hours. First Library branches scheduled to reopen for in-person service.
Reopened branches double capacity and expand hours. Ballard Branch reopens. Reopened branches begin to allow browsing and self-checkout. Douglass-Truth and Rainier Beach branches reopen. The Central Library reopens in Downtown Seattle on June 21. Over the next 5 days, the Library reopens 9 more neighborhood branches across the city.
Reopened branches double capacity and expand hours. Ballard Branch reopens. Reopened branches begin to allow browsing and self-checkout. Douglass-Truth and Rainier Beach branches reopen. The Central Library reopens in Downtown Seattle on June 21. Over the next 5 days, the Library reopens 9 more neighborhood branches across the city.
A Look Back at Library Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A Look Back at Library Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A Look Back at Library Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic

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