Pages continue to turn in Bellmore’s libraries

Posted

While the pandemic has interrupted life for many, Bellmore’s libraries haven’t skipped a beat. Despite some setbacks and new stringent guidelines, they continue to be vital resources to the community.

Inside, things may look different — Plexiglas shields divide workers and visitors, masks adorn faces and many pieces of furniture remain in storage — but both the Bellmore Memorial Library and the North Bellmore Public Library are open for patrons to enjoy.

On a recent Friday afternoon, Children’s Librarian Pam Pagones helped a mother and her son check out a book at the Bellmore Library. It’s a return to her usual routine after the building reopened in July, although new signage encourages social distancing and mask wearing.

Similar changes have come to the North Bellmore Library, where Interim Director Jessica Tymecki has led operations since taking the reins roughly a year ago. About half of the computers are cordoned off and the front entrance acts as a grab-and-go area for book pickups to comply with pandemic protocols.

“I thought the biggest challenge would be to take on the role while still finalizing renovations, but that was nothing,” Tymecki said between laughs. “I like to think positively, so we’re using this time to our advantage.”

Despite the new normal, life at the libraries proceeds as usual. Many of the services have been restored or “translated” in some way, Tymecki and Pagones said. Patrons are welcome to stop by but are asked to spend a maximum of 30 minutes indoors while they browse. At the North Bellmore Library, capacity is limited to 35 guests.

Events for children and teens live on virtually. Pagones explained that drawing workshops, fitness classes, virtual lectures and more are held via video chat. Tymecki said the library went virtual practically “overnight,” and the staff had to get creative.

Registration to receive “Bundles of Fun” — a bag of goodies with games and activities for home — was filled minutes after opening, Tymecki said. She and other staff members then safely delivered them to local families.

“It’s tough to find a balance of giving the community what they want and need [while] also keeping them safe,” Pagones said of the Bellmore Library’s programs.

“The staff and I are very enthusiastic to get the library open,” Tymecki said. “We’re bringing it back to life even better than it was before.”