The Talbot County Free Library will open for extended hours beginning on June 1, 2021. Some library services remain limited at this time to help contain the spread of COVID-19.
The safety and health of our patrons and staff is our priority. Thank you for following guidelines and for your patience and flexibility as we move through this time together.
What measures are the library taking to keep patrons and staff safe?
The library is taking a number of precautions to limit personal contact and follow social distancing guidelines including:
The following occupancy limits apply:
While the library is taking safety and cleaning measures, we cannot guarantee the cleanliness of materials or equipment as public libraries are high touch facilities. The risk of entering any public facility is your own. High touch surfaces will be cleaned frequently.
What hours is the library open?
Talbot County Free Library locations currently have reduced hours to allow extra time for disinfection and cleaning of spaces throughout the day. Hours for both libraries are:
Monday and Thursday: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
At this time, the Talbot County Free Library is closed on Saturday.
Library staff are available by phone during regular library hours. Call to ask a question, reserve books, and more.
Have any changes been made to check out procedures?
Patrons are encouraged to use the self-check station at each branch to check out materials.
What if I don't feel comfortable coming into the library to pick up holds?
A family member or friend may pick up your holds by presenting your library card to check out your materials.
Can I request materials from other libraries on the Eastern Shore or through Interlibrary Loan?
Yes, Interlibrary Loans from other libraries on the Eastern Shore and throughout the state of Maryland are available.
Are there any limitations on browsing while I am at the library?
What if I have materials to donate to the Library?
Unfortunately, the Talbot County Free Library is unable to accept material donations at this time.
How do I return materials to the library during this time?
Please return materials, such as books, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks to the book drops outside our each of our branches. Please return Wi-Fi hotpots to the circulation desk inside. If there is a wait, Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebooks may be returned to the staff greeter near the entrance. Other materials will not be accepted at the circulation desk.
When will you be holding in-person programs and events again?
Can I book a meeting room or use a study room?
Library meeting rooms will be available for public use beginning on July 1, 2021. Meeting room bookings will begin on June 1, 2021.
Study rooms are closed until further notice.
What changes have been made to the children's area?
What other changes have been made to the building?
What are the limits to other services?
What happens next for the library?
We have developed a phased reopening plan that allows us to increase or decrease service as necessary based on pandemic trends. We will continue to follow CDC recommendations as well as state and county orders.
Depending on the number of cases in Talbot County or other circumstances related to the pandemic, we may be forced to return to previous restrictions such as offering our books-to-go service or to closing one or both branches once again for an extended period. We apologize in advance should this become necessary.