OPL's Path to Reopening
The latest update on library services in relation to COVID-19.
Effective December 22, 2021: As a precautionary measure all in-person Creation Zone and Tech Help appointments with a Creation Zone specialist will be moved to virtual (where possible) or cancelled. Impacted customers will be contacted directly.
Effective December 19, 2021: As a precautionary measure to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 variant Omicron, and to align with the new provincial measures announced on December 17, the following changes to services will take effect:
- All in-person programming will move to virtual sessions (where possible). Impacted customers will be contacted directly.
- Capacity limits at all OPL branches will be in effect at 50%.
- All room rental bookings at OPL facilities will be paused temporarily.
Effective December 17, 2021: At this time OPL has NOT received a request to be a COVID-19 rapid antigen test distribution centre or pop-up location. Updates and changes to this status will be shared via our website. Visit the Ministry of Ontario's website for a list of distribution pop-up locations.
Effective September 22, 2021: Oakville Public Library (OPL) will not require proof of COVID-19 vaccination at OPL branches, with the exception of room rental bookings. More details here.
Effective July 16, 2021: Halton region will move into a Step 3 of the Province of Ontario's Roadmap to Reopen.
Please note, access to facilities and programs may be impacted by evolving health and safety protocols related to COVID-19. The town will follow all requirements and recommendations issued by Halton Public Health and any applicable provincial regulations. The town may use discretion to impose its own requirements. If you have registered for a program or service, you will be notified if your registration is impacted by any changes.
Services Available
- In-person library card registration
- In-branch browsing
- Self-checkouts
- Ability to pick-up holds without an appointment
- Online card registration
- Most branches now open 5 days a week
- Library Takeout for contactless hold pickups
- Grab and Go surprise library bags
- OPL Picks for You for personalized book-matching pickups
- Library returns (during select branch hours)
- Computer access and printing
- OPL Express for hold pickups and borrowing on-the-go
- Connection Kits for older adults (55+) – accessible and loanable mobile tablets with Wi-Fi and reading apps
- Books by Mail Delivery Service
- Non-book loanable sports and technology kits
- Exam proctoring
Services Not Available
- In-branch programs
- In-person Creation Zone and Tech Help appointments with a Creation Zone specialist
- Outdoor programming
- Room rentals
- Group gatherings within branch
- Youth Study Hall
- Access to in-branch children’s toys (Tinker toys, board games, etc.)
How We’re Keeping Our Community Safe
- Signage is posted both inside and outside library branches outlining physical distancing guidelines. Everyone must maintain a minimum of six (6) feet apart when open for select in-branch services.
- There are multiple sanitization stations available for all customers throughout each branch. Customers are encouraged to clean their hands at the beginning and end of their visit.
- Implement the regional mandatory mask policy for everyone accessing public spaces of the library.
- Computer keyboards, computer mice and all other technical equipment, plus all workstations (tables and chairs) will be wiped down after each session.
- Dedicated cleaning staff consistently sanitizing throughout the day.