Curbside Pickup

 

Beginning Wednesday, January 5, 2022, we are returning to Curbside Pickup service ONLY at St. Thomas Public Library. Book returns are still available during this time.

Curbside Pickup hours are:
Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE OUR UPDATED
CURBSIDE PICK-UP HOURS:

Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Closed Sundays and holidays.

How to Use Curbside Pickup:

1) Place Your Holds

You can place your holds online with your library account or over the phone by calling 519-631-6050 and pressing 1. If you need a library card, you can sign up for one online at https://stthomaspubliclibrary.ca/virtual-card/

2) Wait for us to contact you

Once you have submitted your holds, we will pull all available materials from the shelves and you will receive an email telling you they are ready. Once you have received the email, please visit the library during our curbside pickup hours get your materials.

3) Pickup Your Items

Don’t forget to bring a bag to carry your books home! When you arrive, please call us at 519-631-6050 and press 0. We will get your items and place them on the table at the front door. Once your items are there, please come up the stairs or ramp to get your items. Unfortunately, the library building is not open at this time. This includes for computer use or using the washrooms.

4) Enjoy Your Items!

Please practice your own precautions when you get home by either wiping down materials with a disposable wipe or quarantining them for the appropriate amount of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What safety measures are in place?

To make curbside pickup is offered safely for our staff and patrons, we have put the following safety measures in place:

  • Staff are screened prior to starting work each day.
  • Signage is in place detailing where to go.
  • We have clearly marked spots to stand in line that ensure you are 2 metres (6 feet) apart from staff and other patrons at all times.
  • We are regularly wiping down surfaces including doors and tables.
What do I need to pick up my material?

We do not have bags available, so please bring your own bags for transporting your items.

Am I able to come in to the building to use the washrooms or computers?

No. The building is closed to the public at this time.

I have holds that I wish to pick up, however I am uncomfortable or unable to come to the library. What should I do?

Please tell us that someone else will be picking up your materials when we contact you to let you know your pickup is available. If possible, please send your library card with the individual picking up your items.

 

I still have items checked out but I am uncomfortable with coming to the library at this time, what can I do?

Please hold on to your items until you feel comfortable returning them. Please note: our return bins are contactless and available outdoors in front of the library for your convenience!

How long will items be checked out to me?

Please see the list of loan periods here. Additionally, if an item does not have a hold for another patron wanting the items, your items will automatically renew for another three weeks when your due date comes.

 

How do I return materials currently checked out?

At this time, we are asking that all returns be made at our return bin at 153 Curtis Street. 

I have books checked out from before closures, will I have fines?

We are now a fine-free library! You will not have fines associated with these items but may be charged the replacement costs. As soon as you bring back the material, the replacement costs will be removed from your account!

 

I don’t have a library card, can I still do curbside pick up?

Please sign up for a library card here and you’ll be all set to go! 

Can I drop off book donations?

We do not accept book donations at the library. Please visit the Friends of St. Thomas Public Library store at Elgin Centre.

I can’t place holds online, can I do it over the phone?

Yes. Please call 519-631-6050 and press 1. We can place holds on your account over the phone for you.

Is the Holds Locker at Elgin Centre available to place and collect holds from?

Yes! You can place holds online or over the phone and select “Holds Locker” as the location. You will be notified when your holds are available to be picked up. Please note that the Holds Locker is not regularly sanitized or monitored for physical distancing. Maintain a safe distance from others (2 meters) when at the Elgin Centre and wash your hands after using the Holds Locker.

Still have questions? We can help! Give us a call at 519-631-6050 or email us at info@stthomaspubliclibrary.ca and someone will get back to you.

If you would prefer digital options that do not involve coming to the library, here are some of the resources you have access to. If you don’t already have a library card, you can register for a free one by clicking here.