Building update: Walls up, soffit installed

Walls for the new drive-up window and workspace go up at Vernon Area Public Library on April 9.

Spring's mild weather has been a boon to the construction project under way at the library. Over the past few days, the walls for the new drive-up window and adjoining workspace were put up (pictured above) and the soffit for the new covered walkway (pictured below) was installed. The progress is encouraging, and it bodes well for the anticipated June reopening of the library building.

These are the services we're working to roll out after construction is done:

• Drive-up service. The new drive-up window will provide a convenient, accessible option for contactless pickup. (Curbside pickup will close when the drive-up window opens.)
• Grab-and-go service. You’ll be able to request items and pick them up from the “holds” shelves inside the library.
• Browsing. You will be able to walk among the library shelves and select materials.
• Computer workstations. Designated public computers and printers will be available for use — probably by appointment. 

Of course, all building reopening plans depend on local COVID-19 measurements. If the situation changes, we may need to pause.

Thank you for doing your part to help bring the pandemic to an end. As of yesterday, Monday, April 12, all Illinois residents ages 18 and up are eligible to be vaccinated. Learn more about vaccine safety and efficacy, and how to schedule your appointment at VAPLD.info/coronavirus.

The soffit for the new covered walkway is installed at the library, April 9.