Alexandria’s library system is currently in the process of preparing for the first phase of reopening, but for many Alexandrians it could still be a while before you’re able to go and check out books.

In the video town hall last night (Thursday) where he also addressed the city’s coronavirus testing, Mayor Justin Wilson also offered a glimpse at what’s ahead for the city’s libraries.

“Going into phase one, [the libraries] are bringing staff back, organizing all of the holds placed over the last several months,” Wilson said. “The expectation is around June 15, people can pick up held books at the library.”

The Alexandria library’s phased reopening plan said the library will be offering curbside pickup for books. In the meantime, the library has a new selection of electronic options to help residents through the quarantine.

Once the city enters Phase 2 of reopening, which could be June 5 for the rest of the state, Wilson said Alexandrians will likely be able to start placing a hold on new books and going to pick them up.

Wilson said it won’t be until Phase 3 when the public parts of the library start to reopen to the public. Even then, the phased reopening plan notes that the library will be limited to 25% of its full capacity.

Staff photo by Jay Westcott