Limited Library Opening Begins Monday March 22

At long last the Scarsdale Public Library will have a limited re-opening for library cardholders. The library was closed for over two years as it underwent an extensive renovation and expansion which was completed in the fall of 2020. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, it was too risky to welcome the public back inside though patrons could order books for pick-up and order food for takeout from the Apiary Café.

Now, the long awaited day has come where you can book half an hour browsing sessions by appointment only starting Monday March 22, 2021. The library will have a dedicated one hour time slot for seniors to book their half an hour sessions.

Others can reserve a browsing session at the following times:

Monday: 1 pm - 6 pm

1 pm - 2 pm: Seniors Only Hour (Senior citizens may be accompanied by an aide or companion);
2 pm - 6 pm: Half hour browsing sessions by appointment; ten person maximum.

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 11 am - 3 pm

11 am -12 pm: Seniors Only Hour (Senior citizens may be accompanied by aide or companion);
12 pm - 3 pm: Half hour browsing sessions by appointment; ten person maximum;

Saturday: 11 am - 3pm

Half hour browsing sessions by appointment; ten person maximum;

Access will be limited to 10 patrons for half hour browsing sessions. They encourage visitors to reserve in advance. Click here to make your reservation.

At this time, only two people will be allowed per reservation party. Those that do not reserve a time slot in advance will be asked to wait until space is available.

A Welcome Back Video was created by Hazel Witch Productions, an award-winning student production company founded by Jake Lubin, Jordan Cascade, Sam Friedman, and Jeremy Suzman. The video introduces the space to everyone who is opting not to schedule in person visits at this time and can be viewed and shared on youtube here.

The librarians and staff are looking forward to finally welcoming the public back and (hopefully) continuing to open the library services as local infection rates decline and things get back to normal. “We are thankful for the community’s patience and support during this extraordinary time and are excited for the public to come and see this amazing new space.” Elizabeth Bermel, Director of the Scarsdale Public Library commented. “We are committed to reopening as safely as possible and continue to follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, Village of Scarsdale, Westchester Library System and the Governor’s office.”

Margot Milberg, President of the Library’s Board of Trustees, is similarly eager for the library to reopen as safely as possible: “The Scarsdale Public Library understands how eager the community is to enjoy our beautiful new building, and we were as sad and disappointed as any about our delayed ability to gather and learn together. The reopening plan is an exciting step in the direction of ultimately reopening our Library fully.”

Learn more about their COVID-19 visiting and safety protocols on the library website News & Updates Page and their Welcome Back Page. If there are any questions, patrons can call (914) 722-1300 or email [email protected].