Curbside pickup for books is available at the library. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

library services

Programming at Alex Robertson Public Library continues online despite pandemic

Apr 29, 2020 | 12:17 PM

Staff at La Ronge’s Alex Robertson Public Library have adapted their services as hours were reduced because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the facility completely closed off to the public, Administrator Sean Stares said it’s been strange operating the library in recent weeks. He noted when it was first closed, they didn’t know what to do and it was a difficult transition for them.

“We started to look at what we could offer, what online programs would be of value in our community,” Stares said. “The first thing we did was create the Alex Robertson Public Library YouTube channel.”

Stares mentioned the YouTube channel has proved to be a valuable resource because the videos are stored online and can be accessed on demand. That means programming can be used by patrons at their own convenience and be revisited whenever they choose. The channel has allowed the library to be introduced to a large audience, he said, as well as maintain a connection with regular patrons.

Between Monday and Friday, there’s a new online activity the library hosts each day for the public. The week begins with Draw-A-Doodle, which is a drawing activity for the participants of all ages. An e-Resource Review meant to educate the public on accessing free newspapers, magazines and publications through PressReader is held Tuesdays, while Family Story Time occurs Wednesdays.

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The Stay At Home Show featuring stories and plays from the library’s puppets is held Thursdays. On Friday, arts and crafts tutorials are held along with a Read-Aloud Series.

“Books and other items are now available to the public,” Stares said. “Curbside pickups for items that are in our library are being offered from Monday to Thursday from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Unfortunately, Interlibrary loans are currently not available.”

Those interested in accessing the Alex Robertson Public Library’s YouTube channel can do so here.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno