Blog Entries

Library to Reopen for Browsing March 15

Ames Public Library is moving into the next phase of reopening spaces to the public. Starting March 15, visitors will be able to browse collections on the first and second floors of the Library. Library staff will be available to answer basic reference and account questions. Computers will continue to be available for 30 minute sessions. Quick Picks, Grab and Go Bags, and @HOME Activity kits will remain conveniently located in the lobby. Play areas, study rooms, and meeting rooms will remain closed during this phase.

Visitors should limit their time in the building to 30 minutes s... Read Full Blog

Lobby Opens February 1

Starting February 1, Ames Public Library will switch from curbside service to holds pickup and “grab and go” services in the Library’s lobby.

While the lobby is open, visitors may check out their holds, Grab & Go bags, Quick Picks, and other items on display in the lobby. Visitors may also pick up @Home Activity Kits and tax forms (as they become available).

Computers will be available for use in the Library’s Auditorium during lobby hours. Due to the need for distancing, computer sessions will be limited.

The Library staff and Board of Trustees are dedicat... Read Full Blog

Library Shifts to Curbside Service

In response to increased community spread of COVID-19, Ames Public Library will shift from “grab and go” lobby service to curbside service starting Sunday, November 22.

Curbside Holds Pickup will allow Library cardholders to request physical items like books and DVDs, then pick them up in front of the Library safely and easily. “We’ve got a new, flexible curbside system,” says Library Director Sheila Schofer. “Instead of making an appointment, you can come by when it’s convenient for you.”

After requesting items using the Library’s online catalog, customers need to ... Read Full Blog

Reopening the Library: Phase 1

***UPDATE: Face coverings are now required in City buildings including the Library.

 

Starting July 1, Ames Public Library’s lobby will be open for limited “grab and go” services.

We’re excited to welcome the community back into the building!

However, this first phase is a limited reopening of only the lobby for quick holds pickup and checkouts. The focus is on short visits and reduced interaction with staff for the health and safety of visitor and staff.

Please do not come into the Library if you or a member of your household are sick ... Read Full Blog

Returning Library Items

We're ready for you to start returning your Library items! 

If you're ready to get the Library books out of your house, drop them off in the drive-up drop box in the alley behind the Library. (The drop box by the front door is also available.)

Please continue to hold onto oversize items, puppets, or anything else that shouldn't go in the drop box. We'll quarantine returned items before re-shelving them as a precaution.

Stay tuned for updates as we get ready to reintroduce some library services!

... Read Full Blog

COVID-19 Closure Update

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ames Public Library is closed for the safety of our visitors, staff, and community.

We are working with the City of Ames and health officials to plan for a gradual reintroduction of services. 

Watch for updates as we approach mid-May.

... Read Full Blog

Library Closed through May 15

Ames Public Library will be closed starting Tuesday, March 17 through May 15, 2020 for the safety of our visitors, staff, and community. During this time, please take advantage of our e-books and other online resources.

Please keep all materials you currently have checked out until the library re-opens. No items will be due and no fines will accrue while the Library is closed. Held items will not expire, and will be available when we reopen.

Home delivery, deposit collections, Project Smyles, and Bookmobile stops are also suspended during this time.

We wil... Read Full Blog

Closed Presidents' Day for Staff Training

Ames Public Library is closed to the public every year on Presidents' Day, but there's still a lot of activity in the building!

This February 18, Library staff will be here for a variety of training sessions, presentations, and activities. This is a rare opportunity for all staff members to meet at the same time without interruption, so we pack it as full as we can! 

While you won't be able to check anything out from the Library building or the Bookmobile, there's still a lot of content available through our website! Visit our Stream and Download page for e-boo... Read Full Blog