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May 24, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Donna Scott-Martin
(301) 699-3500, ext. 6152
donna.scott-martin@pgcmls.info

PGCMLS Phase 3 – Full Browsing Starts June 14

Largo, Md. – Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) has provided customers with internet access, nationally recognized virtual programs, access to physical materials through Curbside Service, and essential resource distribution events. Phase 3 of the Library’s COVID-19 Phased Reopening Plan begins on Monday, June 14 when 17 branches will open to the public with limited capacity for full browsing and expanded Monday-Saturday hours.

Additional computers will be available for customers to use for up to one hour by appointment (or walk-up, on a space available basis). Curbside service will continue to be available for customer convenience. Appointments may be booked up to 7 days in advance. Study rooms will be open; however, meeting rooms will remain closed. Indoor in-person programs, passport services, fax services, and book donations remain suspended during Phase 3. PGCMLS is not able to accommodate group visits from child or adult care services during Phase 3, including but not limited to pre-schools, daycare, or camps. Customers may contact (240) 455-5451 or askalibrarian@pgcmls.info with questions.

Health and Safety Guidelines

PGCMLS will continue to require facemasks and physical distancing at its facilities (for staff and customers) during Phase 3. Customers’ assistance with continuing to protect the children and youth who are not eligible to be vaccinated and high-risk populations is appreciated.

Phase 3 Services Available

  • Full browsing: stacks are open without restrictions, no appointments required
  • Computer use: by appointment (or walkup, on a space available basis), 50% capacity
  • Curbside Service
  • Printing, mobile printing, scanning
  • Study rooms
  • Library card services

Phase 3 Branch Hours

Library hours extend to Monday-Saturday, effective June 14:

  • Monday-Tuesday 10 am to 6 pm
  • Wednesday 12 to 8 pm
  • Thursday-Friday 10 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am to 5 pm

Phase 3 Branch Status by Area

North

  • Beltsville – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Bowie – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Greenbelt – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Laurel – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment

West

  • Bladensburg (Temporary Site) – open for Phase 3 limited computers/curbside by appointment
  • Hyattsville – closed for relocation from 5 pm on May 29 (A separate announcement for the new branch opening in summer 2021 will be issued.)
  • Mount Rainier – open for Phase 3, computers by appointment (no curbside)
  • New Carrollton – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment

Central

  • Fairmount Heights – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Glenarden – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Hillcrest Heights – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Spauldings – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment

East

  • Largo-Kettering – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • South Bowie – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Upper Marlboro – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • County Correctional Center Library – on CCC reopening schedule

South

  • Accokeek – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Baden – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Oxon Hill – open for Phase 3, computers/curbside by appointment
  • Surratts-Clinton Pop-up at Davies UUC – closed

“All of us at PGCMLS look forward to seeing our beloved customers back at neighborhood branch libraries now that the public health conditions are improving,” said Roberta Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of PGCMLS. “Public health and safety measures will continue to include wearing facemasks, physical distancing, plexiglass shields at service desks, hand sanitizer dispensers, and single use keyboard and mouse covers.”

To get the most out of your library visit, download the PGCMLS mobile app (iOS or Android), which offers self-checkout to provide a contactless experience at branches. The Library’s transition to Phase 3 reflects the strategic planning and preparation by PGCMLS staff and the Board of Library Trustees.

Graphics Package

About the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System

The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) helps customers discover and define opportunities that shape their lives. The Library serves the 915,000+ residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland through 19 branch libraries, a 24/7 online library, and pop-up services throughout the community. PGCMLS is a responsive and trusted community-driven organization. Programs, services, and outreach activities serve booklovers, immigrants and refugees, job seekers, children, young professionals, seniors, and families alike.

PGCMLS’ robust online offerings include curated content collections for kids, teens, educators, Spanish speakers, and more. Virtual events and outreach provide access to the Library from the comfort of home or on the go. Special programs include the D.R.E.A.M. Lab, STEM Pals, and 3D printing, which offer teens and lifelong learners with opportunities to learn cutting-edge technology and STEM skills for job readiness or personal enrichment. The Library also provides drive-up WiFi access at all branches and mobile hotspot devices. The Library’s Laurel Branch Library received the 2018 AIA/ALA Library Building Award and was designated the best new public building in Maryland.

As a strong community partner, the Library regularly collaborates with local government agencies and non-profit organizations to provide access to essential community services and programs. Partners include the Prince George’s County Human Relations Commission, Employ Prince George’s, Prince George’s County Public Schools, and Prince George’s Community College. Learn more at pgcmls.info or by visiting the Largo-Kettering Branch at 9601 Capital Lane, Largo, MD 20774.