Current Temperature

-1.6°C

March 28, 2024 March 28, 2024

Susan Andersen Memorial Library still making reading possible during pandemic

Posted on April 29, 2020 by 40 Mile Commentator

By Justin Seward

Commentator/Courier

The Susan Andersen Memorial Library has been closed since March 14.
But the Bow Island library got creative with its temporary closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic by rolling out the curbside pick-up option of the “Used Book Grab Bag” for local readers.
People can call into the library and staff with prepare a Book Grab Bag of kids, teen or adult books and they can pick up the bag the next day at a designated time.
Staff will determine how many books are in a bag and the books are picked up at no cost.
“The books we are using have been donated throughout the year by the public or materials we have deleted from the library collection,” said Kathryn Van Dorp, librarian.
“The library usually does an outdoor book sale in July as fundraiser but we figure that won’t happen this summer. There has been questions about making donations to the book bags and while they are free, we will gratefully accept what they would like to give. I think this is a unique service that has been appreciated.”
Van Dorp said libraries are known to adapt to community needs and they are looking at this time in history as a challenge to continue library services.
JoAnne Andrew sure appreciates the service while in isolation.
“As we are isolated in our homes these days due to COVID-19, our spirits are low and trying to keep sane,” said Andrew .
“ Kathryn and staff have brightened our days with a special gesture of book bag. I know I was excited to receive my bag. It was like Christmas opening up a present wondering what books I received, yes put a smile on my face.”

Leave a Reply

Get More Bow Island Commentator
Log In To Comment Latest Paper Subscribe