As we continue through these interesting and unprecedented times, New Ulm Public Library has stayed committed to providing excellent library services that are safe for both library patrons and staff.

One of the common concerns that we had as we began to loan out library items dealt with the safety of handling them. We continue to quarantine library materials that are turned into the library for 72 hours. If you still have an item on your library account, don’t fret. The library does not charge overdue fines. If you still see an item on your library account a week after your return, give us a call. Please give it a full week.

Our operating hours will expand for the fall. Starting September 8, we will be open Monday – Thursday from 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. and Friday – Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The outside book drop will continue to be open only on Mondays and Thursdays. Indoor book drops by the entryway will continue to be available for returns during business hours.

The Friends of the New Ulm Public Library will not be having a fall Book Sale this year. The library is still not accepting donations due to space and quarantine constraints.

We still encourage our patrons to browse and go. We do have a total building capacity limit for safe social distancing that we have not met yet; the children’s room has a limit of 15 people due to social distancing guidelines.

We require patrons to keep their visits to 30 minutes to find books, pick up holds, make copies, and receive reference assistance.

There are no computers, tables, or chairs available for use in the Children’s room.

In-person tutoring, collaboration, group project work, hanging out, and socializing are not allowed. There will be tables available for study in the non-fiction area starting September 8. Only one individual per table will be allowed and will be on a first come first served basis based on what is available.

Students may use a computer in the computer area on the first floor. Sessions are limited to one hour per day as they are for the adult-age patrons.

There are many library services available for our patrons:

The Memory Lab is available for use. Check out our website for more information on how to set up an appointment.

Mobile printing is available which enables you to send homework and paperwork from your home computer or cell phone to our printer.

We have digital editions of books, audiobooks, and graphic novels available via Overdrive.

We can provide you with a list of book recommendations customized for your child or teen and gather those items for you to pick up.

We will continue our virtual programs in the fall, including storytime and book clubs. We’ll offer Take and Make crafts to pick up at the library for children, tweens, and teens. At this time, we will not be offering in-person programming at the library.

Reference services are available in person, by phone, and via email.

We continue to offer our contactless pickup services, for those who are not comfortable coming into the library to pick up their library materials.

Thank you for your continued patience, understanding, support, and flexibility as we ensure the safety of library patrons and staff. As always, we look forward to seeing you in the library soon!