Libraries implement new protocols ahead of return to campus

To ensure the health and safety of the UB community during the COVID-19 pandemic, the University Libraries will employ a phased re-opening of facilities as faculty, staff and students return to campus.

Following guidelines implemented across the university that are based on the most recent scientific research and the expertise of UB faculty and professional staff, libraries visitors are required to wear face coverings at all times.

Furniture has been rearranged to promote social distancing, library service desks will be fitted with protective plexiglass, hand sanitizer and disposable wipes will be available, and University Facilities will regularly clean and disinfect public spaces. New, touchless print kiosks will be available in the libraries and across UB campuses as well.

To further protect the UB community, campus libraries will be open to current UB faculty, staff and students only. The libraries will not be open to the public. University Libraries will continue to provide online services.

“Since the COVID-19 outbreak began and most of our physical spaces closed, our library staff remained committed to providing critical resources and services to meet the needs of the university,” says Evviva Weinraub Lajoie, vice provost for university libraries.

“The safety of everyone who uses the libraries is paramount to us, and with that in mind, our goal is to frame a reopening plan that safeguards the health and well-being of the campus community.”

Oscar A. Silverman Library is currently open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Abbott and Lockwood libraries will reopen on Aug. 17.

Beginning with the start of the fall semester on Aug. 31, the availability of campus libraries will change to:

• Oscar A. Silverman Library: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. Recording studios are available by reservation only.
• Lockwood Memorial Library: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. The Polish Room will be available by appointment only.
• Abbott Library: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 8 p.m.

The Charles B. Sears Law Library is open to School of Law faculty, staff and graduate students only; the Music Library is available by appointment only and the Medical School Library is open to authorized users only. Special Collections and the Libraries Annex will remain closed.

Starting Aug. 17, the UB community may borrow items using the UB Libraries app or at self-checkout kiosks on the first floor of Abbott Library and the second floor of Lockwood Library. Borrowed items will not be available for pickup in Silverman Library.

Materials may be returned at book drop boxes outside the entrances to Abbott Library, the Law Library and Lockwood Library. Items may also be returned to any other SUNY library.

On Aug. 17, the University Libraries will resume delivery of print materials through the Delivery + service.

For more information on library hours and guidelines, visit the University Libraries website.