Bozeman Public Library reopens

The Bozeman Public Library has finally reopened its doors to the public after being closed for over four months due to the pandemic. Gallatin County’s low infection numbers and increasing vaccination rates made it possible for the library to safely resume in-person services on Tuesday, March 30.

Now that it’s open, the library has a few COVID-19 restrictions in place to reduce person-to-person contact. Face masks and social distancing are required, a limited number of people are allowed in the building at a time and no public seating is available. The first and second floors are open for browsing and the public computers are also open for use. Patrons of the library are also being asked to limit their visits to 30 minutes or less.

The library closed its doors to the public on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020, due to the upward trend of COVID-19 cases in Gallatin County. Public browsing was suspended, but the library offered curbside pickup as well as virtual and telephone services.

Susan Gregory, the library’s director, announced the library’s reopening in a letter to the press on Monday, March 15. “It’s been a long winter for everyone, hasn’t it? The past year has been challenging but we’ve come through it and we’ll face the future months with hope and excitement,” Gregory said.

The library plans to remain open for the foreseeable future and thanked the public for its support despite the library’s limited services. “Thank you all for bearing with us as we have navigated the pandemic. We are so grateful for your understanding. We thank you for your patience. And, we look forward to seeing you soon!” Gregory said.

The library’s current hours are from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tuesday - Friday and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturdays. The library will be closed on Sundays and Mondays. Popular events hosted by the library will continue to be held online and can be found on the library’s website at bozemanlibrary.org/events/calendar/library-events-calendar.