Library Curbside Pickup Program

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Washington County Library responded to community needs in innovative ways. One of those innovations was the launch of curbside pickup just one day after Washington County suspended public-facing services at all county facilities. Washington County Library was also the first library system in Minnesota to make curbside pickup available to its residents during the pandemic. Access to library materials supported distance learning, provided access to information, and promoted the health and well-being of Washington County communities during the pandemic. From March 19 to December 31, 2020, patrons scheduled almost 26,000 curbside pickup appointments, checking out more than 137,000 items. Beyond numbers, curbside pickup has had a positive emotional impact for residents of Washington County. Countless patrons called, emailed, and commented on social media about how grateful they are for the service during the pandemic.