(MURFREESBORO) Based on the current statistics and latest orders from Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, the Rutherford County Library System is implementing a phased re-opening plan.
Phase 1 Starts May 1
During phase #1, library staff will return to work on May 1, but libraries will continue to remain closed to the public. This will enable staff to prepare for re-opening, receive and disinfect returned materials, and develop new safety protocols. LINEBAUGH will begin offering their curbside service on May 4 (including notary services) Monday through Friday only from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. All other branches will follow once adequate supplies and logistics are in place.
Fines will not accrue on materials until we re-open to the public. Patrons may start returning items in the book drops beginning May 1 at any RCLS branch. We are encouraging patrons to return their materials during Phase #1 to allow for adequate time to disinfect materials before opening our facilities to the public. Please make use of our online resources such as OverDrive (Libby) and Hoopla for e-books, e-audios, music, movies and more. If you need to renew your current library card, email Carol Ghattas at cghattas@rclstn.org, and she will update your card as soon as possible. If you don't have a library card, but want to use online resources, you can visit our website at rclstn.org and sign up for an Ecard.
Linebaugh Curbside Service: To use our curbside service for pickup of available holds, visit our Rutherford County Library System app or rclstn.org website and search the online catalog for an item. Place the hold, and once you've received notification of its availability, you can visit the library between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., parking in the pull-off area on Church Street, text or call the curbside number 615-809-9225, giving staff your name and library card number. They will check the items out and bring them to your car. This service will continue for the foreseeable future, to enable patrons to continue to use caution due to potential health risks.
Again, this service will be offered, beginning on May 4, Monday through Friday from 10AM - 4PM at Linebaugh Public Library. Watch our website and social media for start dates for our other locations.
Director of Libraries, Rita Shacklett, shares: "We know this extended closure of our libraries has been so hard on patrons, as it has been on our staff. We appreciate everyone's patience with us as we prepare to reopen with limited hours to safely serve our communities. We apologize for any inconvenience this decision might cause, but we appreciate your understanding and always appreciate your support."
Rutherford County Library System
There are five branches of the Rutherford County Library System:
- Linebaugh Public Library is located at 105 W. Vine St. in Murfreesboro
- Smyrna Public Library is located at 400 Enon Springs Rd. West in Smyrna
- Eagleville Bicentennial Public Library is located at 317 Hwy 99E in Eagleville
- MGL Library is located inside Patterson Park Community Center at 521 Mercury Blvd. in Murfreesboro
- The Technology Engagement Center is located at 306 Minerva Drive
