Some COVID-19 Adaptations at Detroit Lakes Public Library May Stay

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – The COVID-19 Pandemic forced the Detroit Lakes Public Library to adapt and innovate, some of those innovations may be here to stay long after the pandemic ends.

After closing in March, the library reopened July 1 – the time closed allowed the library to put things into place to meet people where they’re at. Library Director, Greta Guck says online Library cards, which had been discussed for several years were one of the first adaptations the Library made, “We did that in a week after we shut our doors because we realized we have all these resources: ebooks, streaming movies, all digital content; when we closed in march the only way to get a library card prior to that was to come into the library.”

In April, the library added curbside pickup, Guck says they’re continuing that program though the library is now open. “If you’re not comfortable coming into the Library, place your book on hold, when it’s ready we setup an appointment and bring your book out to you.”

The library added Hoopla in May, giving library patrons unlimited access to its collection of digital media.

“You do need a library card, but once you have a card you can access Hoopla anywhere you have internet access; on your phone, a desktop computer, tablet, you can even use a smart tv,” Guck said.

It could be a while before the library provides all of their pre-covid services in-person, but Guck says, “we’re open and we’re trying to meet people where they’re at.”