Nearly a week after reopening its Nechako Branch in the Hart, the downtown location of the Prince George Public Library (PGPL) is ready for readers.
As of 10 a.m. this morning (July 28), the Bob Harkins Branch is open during Phase Three of its own restart plan during the COVID-19 pandemic, but there are some conditions residents and visitors must follow.
On May 14, the PGPL had announced the hope of reopening the main facility to the public to limited access, and thanks to a new circulation area installed in its lobby, this will allow up to 20 people to enter the library per visit.
“The project integrates environmentally-friendly features, such as the Library's new circulation desk countertop, which is made of PaperStone - a material that is manufactured using recycled paper and non-petroleum resin,” a city statement reads, explaining the new desk is part of its $4.36-million restoration plan that includes a new front entrance to the PGPL.
In April 2019, Prince George city council approved the project’s increased funding to $410,000 for the circulation area and $3.95 million for the 2.5-storey north-side entrance.
“Since its construction in 1981, the Library has faced challenges with the main entrance open-air stairway,” the city adds.
“The Library’s current entrances pose a challenge for many, including young families, people with disabilities, seniors, and staff. Earlier this year, Council approved a revised budget for the project, which now also includes a renovation to the circulation area. The Library entrance project and improvements to the circulation area will address long-standing issues with security and accessibility.
The PGPL’s Bob Harkins Branch will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, closed Sundays and Mondays, with a 20-visitor limit at any given time to ensure physical-distancing and sanitization protocols are met.
The city says residents will be limited to borrowing and dropping off books, DVDs and other items, and must enter the PGPL from the front Rotunda entrance in Canada Games Plaza.
The parkade entrance is still closed due to the ongoing construction.
For more information, you can visit the City of Prince George website.
