West Niagara libraries continue to slowly return to normal operations following the pandemic, but with new health and safety measures.
Libraries in Grimsby, Lincoln, and West Lincoln, are now open for browsing and limited computer use. However, visitors are not allowed to sit, read, or study, in any library at this time.
Masks are mandatory inside all libraries. Hand sanitizer is also available and all surfaces are cleaned regularly. As well, returned books are quarantined for a minimum of 72 hours at all locations.
Library programs remain virtual at this time at all locations. Curbside pick-up also continues.
West Niagara residents who would like to visit their local library must adhere to the safety guidelines set forth by their branch. They are as follows:
Grimsby Public Library
The Grimsby Public Library is now open to the public. Walk-ins will be accepted for book browsing, pick-up, and drop off. Computer appointments are also now available. Library visitors can only enter fom the Ontario/Adelaide street.
Grimsby Library hours:
- Monday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More info: Grimsby Library
Lincoln Public Library
Lincoln Public Library locations in Beamsville and Vineland are open to the public but residents must schedule an appointment.
Each appointment is only 30 minutes long. Only two members per household can enter the library during their scheduled time. During the appointment visitors can browse, pick-up books, and use computers, photocopiers, and scanners.
Fleming Library, Beamsville, hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Moses F. Rittenhouse Library, Vineland, hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More info: Lincoln Public Library
Smithville Public Library
Walk-ins will now be accepted at the Smithville Public Library. The library will allow only ten visitors at a time.
Visitors must ring the bell to be let in. Each person will have 30 minutes to browse. Once inside, residents are asked to maintain a 6-foot distance, wear their masks, and sit only at approved computers that are marked as sanitized.
The Smithville Public Library will now allow small groups to make appointments to use its meeting room but outside of regular library operating hours.
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Thursday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wellandport and Caistorville branches in West Lincoln remain closed at this time. However, curbside pick-up is available at both locations.
More info: West Lincoln Public Library
Wainfleet Public Library
The Wainfleet Public Library is still open for curbside pickup only during the following hours:
Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
More info: Wainfleet Library
Pelham Library
Pelham library branches in Fonthill and Maple Acre are now open to the public. Each library allows book browsing, pick-up, and drop off, as well as, access to computers.
Fonthill branch operating hours:
- Monday, Friday, Saturday: 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
- Tuesday: 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Maple Acre branch operating hours:
Thursday 1:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m.
More info: Pelham Library