Rockland Public Library has issued the following update:

Rockland Public Library is currently closed to the public, but many Library resources are available online during this time of physical distancing.

Since the Library’s closure to the public on March 17th, staff members have been working on a variety of projects at separate stations throughout the building. They have been answering phone calls, fielding emails, and responding to messages on Facebook. There is  a lot of cleaning and organizing taking place within the building. Additionally, staff are engaging in online professional development and individually tackling projects related to the collection.

Two of the best ways to stay engaged at present time are by accessing the Library’s website at rocklandmaine.gov and staying tuned to the Library’s social media. The website provides easy access to Bibliotheca’s CloudLibrary, the platform for checking out eBooks and digital audiobooks with a library card. Additionally, patrons can access a variety of research tools and databases via the website, as well as archived Rockland newspapers. Send questions via email to refdesk@rocklandmaine.gov.

The Library is sharing information primarily on its Facebook page, as it becomes available; some updates can also be found on the website. This includes information from other City departments, City government, State government, and RSU 13; as well as options for local assistance, information on unemployment from Maine Department of Labor, and links to multiple free online resources for kids and adults. Staff members are utilizing the Facebook page and YouTube account in creative ways, presenting virtual story times, tutorials, and book reviews almost every day of the week. They are working to keep people entertained and informed during these unprecedented times. For those who do not have internet access, please call with questions, or if you simply need to hear a friendly voice. People can reach out by phone at 207-594-0310.

Rockland Public Library would like to deliver the following message: “As your public library, we embrace our roles as purveyors of information, providers of access, and a center of the community. While we cannot currently be together in the usual manner, please know that we are thinking of you and doing our best to stay in touch remotely. We will get through this public health crisis the same way we get through everything – as a community. In these uncertain times, one thing remains unchanged: Your Library loves you.”