Jhoana T. Merino-Martinez
News Editor
Libraries and computer labs–essential parts of the academic experience at FDU– will look different this fall semester, as outlined in the reopening plan announced by President Capuano on July 20.
For libraries, the available services will be:
- Contactless check-out of materials
- Material returns via book drop and subject to sanitization procedures
- Inter-campus and inter-library loans are strictly allowed for electronic materials
- Reserved materials will be available electronically only
- Print material stacks will be closed to all, but may be requested and provided by the library staff
- Materials will be re-shelved by the staff after proper sanitization
Masks are mandatory for both staff and patrons within the library, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes are available, and unusable furniture will be marked to maintain social distancing. Plexiglass will be installed at reference desks, and in-person reference services will be conducted by appointment only.
The staff is also instructed to clean all high-touch points throughout the day, in addition to keeping disinfecting wipes available on all computer areas.
Library workshops will continue virtually or in small groups in the building. All library staff will work according to a hybrid model, alternating between home and campus.
Curbside pickup will be introduced in the fall, and will operate with the following guidelines:
- Students can place materials on hold through the virtual library system
- Requested items will be checked out by staff
- Students will receive a notification when it is ready for pickup, and can call the library to schedule a date and time
- At the chosen time, the materials will be delivered to the student’s car or other arranged location
Computer labs will not be allowed for classes that don’t need access to technology. Tech support services may continue via screen-sharing if possible.
Functional computers are six feet apart, others will be disabled and seating decreased.
Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipe stations will be provided. Plexiglass will also be installed at the info desk to separate workers and patrons.
Computer labs will be cleaned once a day, following the same schedule as classrooms.
The computer labs and the Giovatto Library are important resources for Metropolitan students. While these resources are still open, the above guidelines will undoubtedly make this experience different, but it is the new normal.
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