We are excited to announce the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library will reopen to the public on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020 at 25 percent capacity. The Library will be open Monday through Saturday during the following hours:

• 9 - 11 a.m.
• 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• 2 - 4 p.m.
• 4:30 - 6 p.m.

To ensure the health and safety of our patrons and staff, we are operating on a limited-service model. We will close three times a day – at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. - to clean high-touch surfaces.

The Library has limited access to seating, study rooms, computers, the Makerspace, and Genealogy and Local History area. The Makerspace is providing limited in-person programming with one-hour sessions for up to five patrons. Check our calendar to register for these sessions. The Genealogy and Local History area will be open for patrons to browse and conduct research. Patrons can drop-in on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. to receive assistance. The Sustainability Shop will temporarily be closed.

The following in-person services will be available:

• Browsing books to check out
• Returning large items such as kits
• Public computer access for adults (one hour per day)
• Free Wi-fi
• Copying, faxing, and scanning
• Study rooms with reservations (reserve your room here)
• Remote printing
• Limited programming for adults

Masks will be required per the Tarrant County Ordinance. Entrance greeters will have masks available for patrons who do not have one. Adult supervision is encouraged during our operating hours. Arlington Public Library staff will continue following guidance from the Arlington Fire Department and the City of Arlington’s Public Health Authority to provide a safe environment.

Clear plexiglass dividers have been installed at staff desks. To maintain a safe distance between people, furniture has been rearranged. Only a limited number of public computers will be available, with ample space between each station. Computer, fax, and copy assistance can be provided at a safe distance.

Some services will be limited during this phase of reopening. To maintain safe distances between patrons and staff, the following will remain unavailable:

• Meeting rooms
• In-person events and programs (except for Makerspace)
• Children's computers
• Children’s toys and other manipulatives
• The Playroom located on the first floor
• The CREATE Studio located on the second floor
• The Reading Room located on the third floor
• Breaking large bills

Curbside pickup will continue to be available Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Items can be returned through our book drop or our sorting machine, which is located on the first floor. Items will be quarantined for at least 168 hours in compliance with recommendations from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

We are excited to welcome everyone back, if you have any questions please contact us at (817) 459-6900.