Reopening

Masks are required for everyone inside the Library buildings regardless of vaccination status.

Library hours have expanded as follows:

Main Library (all three floors):
Mon, Thu, Fri: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tue, Wed: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sun: Closed

Bellevue Avenue Branch:
Tue: 12 – 8 p.m.
Thu: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun: Closed

The following services are currently available at the Main Library:

Holds and pickup: MPL cardholders can request items via the BCCLS catalog or by calling 973-744-0500 ext. 2245. Once they are notified that items are ready, customers can pick up in one of two ways:
- Drop in during open hours and use the self-checkout machines.
- Limited curbside pickup is still available for those who do not want to enter the building. The items will already be checked out for you. Please call 973-744-0500 ext. 2245 to arrange pickup. Typically, same-day pickup will be possible.
Browsing, seating, and computer use: Computer sessions are 30 minutes with one 30-minute extension (see a staff person for the extension). Printing is available for a fee (25 cents for black ink and $1.00 for color / per page); scanning is free.

Bellevue Avenue Branch: see open hours.

Please note the following:

Masks are required for everyone inside the buildings regardless of vaccination status. If you do not want to or are unable to wear a mask, curbside pickup is still available on a limited basis (see above).
Customers may use the restroom and fill their water bottles while in the building, but drinking from the fountain is unavailable at this time.
Hand sanitizer stations are available throughout the Library.
Eating and drinking are not allowed in the Library at this time.
Returns are accepted 24/7 at the Main Library and Bellevue Avenue Branch using outside slots.

Our Phased Reopening Plan

Prior to Phase 1

The Library closed its buildings to the public in March 2020 to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and in accordance with New Jersey Executive Order No. 107. Digital services remained available and have expanded. Programs and classes moved online.

Phase 1: Returns

In effect: June 16-21, 2020

Return of materials accepted outside the Main Library
Both buildings remain closed to the public

Phase 2: Curbside Pickup

In effect: June 22 – October 17, 2020

MPL cardholders can request items via the BCCLS catalog or by calling 973-744-0500 ext. 2245. Once they are notified that items are ready for pickup, customers can schedule a pickup appointment at the Main Library.
Face coverings and social distancing required
Returns accepted 24/7 at the Main Library and Bellevue Avenue Branch
Both buildings remain closed to the public

Phase 3: Limited In-Person Services

Masks required for everyone inside the buildings regardless of vaccination status
Pickup of holds inside the Main Library by drop-in; limited curbside pickup
Browsing, seating, and computer use
Customers may use the restroom and fill their water bottles while in the building, but drinking from the fountain is unavailable at this time.
Eating and drinking are not allowed in the Library at this time.
Bellevue Avenue Branch: see open hours.

Future Phases

The Library will continue to add services as conditions allow. Because health and safety are our top priority, we will fully reopen only when it is safe for both our customers and staff to do so.

Last update: September 7, 2021