The Barrington Area Library will begin welcoming customers back into the building on Monday, March 1, 2021, for browse and borrow services.

“Browse and borrow” is our way of reorganizing the Library for:

• quick, convenient visits,
• a great selection of books, movies, and more,
• efficient, friendly service,
• all in a safe and clean environment.

What can customers expect during this phase of the Library’s reopening?

Per Illinois Executive Order 2020-32 and Library policy, all Library staff and customers over the age of two years must wear a face covering over their mouth and nose while inside the Library and at outdoor events. If you aren’t able to wear a face covering, please contact us so we can find the best way to assist you.

Please note the following temporary in-person service hours:
Monday - Friday: 10 AM to 6 PM
Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM
Sunday: 1 to 5 PM

Additional virtual hours and services: Staff will also be available for phone, chat, and email assistance from 9 AM to 9 PM on weekdays, 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays, and 1 to 5 PM on Sundays. Appointments may be scheduled for virtual one-on-one assistance. Most Library programs and events will be online, throughout the week.

Pick-Up and Delivery Options that work for you:

BALibrary cardholders may:

• pick up hold requests inside the Library building or via Parking Lot Pick-Up, during hours listed above,
• choose to have items delivered to our pick-up lockers,
• or use our Borrow By Mail service (free of charge).

Customers who enjoy browsing may request a new Browsing Bundle of books or movies.

Computers and Technology:
Customers may use:

• Wi-Fi;
• Simple Scan stations (scan, save, fax, email, and more);
• Remote Web Printing (send print jobs to the Library and then come inside to print);
• Library Catalog/15 Minute Express Internet stations (quick searching);
• Business & Tech center computers: customers may reserve for one hour, and renew for a second hour, if available;
• BALibrary cardholders may submit 3-D print jobs and complete laser-cutting projects to our Digital Services team.

Visit the computers/Internet and MakerLab pages for more details. Printing/copying/scanning will no longer be available for Parking Lot Pick-Up, and normal fees for printing will be reinstated.

For the health and safety of Library customers and staff, a variety of services will be unavailable during this first phase of reopening. Please visit the Library website for complete details.