AVON LAKE, Ohio — Since Renee Dudukovich can't go inside the Avon Lake Public Library because it’s closed to the public due to the pandemic, she’s using the library’s curbside pickup. She says it’s safe and convenient. 

What You Need To Know


  • The library reopens July 13 for checking out books and walk-thru browsing only

  • There will be signs encouraging social distancing, partitions at the help desk, occupancy restrictions, and a mask requirement

  • Returned books will be quarantined for 72 hours

“They are quick to respond and I get an email when my items are in and I just pull up and they bring it out,” said Dudukovich, who is an Avon Lake resident.

On July 13, the library will open its doors for checking out books and walk-thru browsing only. And, there are a lot more changes — like once you walk in, you’ll notice signs for social distancing, there are partitions at the help desk and check out areas, and there will be occupancy restrictions. In addition, everyone who enters will be required to wear some type of mask. 

“We’re requiring anybody comes to visit our library, they are going to be required to have some type of facial covering. Could be a mask like this, could be a plastic face shield, but they do have to have covering and that’s for the safety not just for our staff, but most importantly our patrons and visitors here to the library," said Shea Altmont, the library's communications manager. 

When you come to the library some things will be off limits, like the computers, printers, and the children’s area, which are all high-touch areas.

“I think we can’t stay in anymore. We’ve got to get out, we’ve got to get out safely,” said Harry Kestler.

Harry Kestler is a virologist and professor of microbiology and teaches at Lorain Community College. He believes the Avon Lake Library is taking proper precautions ,but there’s always a risk. 

“When you walk into a building, is this place cool? Is this safe?  I always count the number of people with masks in my head and then I say to myself, well if everybody is wearing a mask, that’s great...this is a good place. If everyone is maintaining good distance, that’s great, I'm gonna stay here," he said.

This library will also quarantine returned books for 72 hours to make sure they are COVID-19-free before someone else checks out the book.

Kestler likes the process.  

“72 quarantine is perfect, it’s fine. Maybe a tad excessive, I'm just saying, but that’s good. There’s nothing wrong with being excessive, and then I think you’ll be OK.”