COVID Polices & Info

    RI residents can register for vaccines at VaccinateRI.org. If you need help registering, contact the Reference Desk at (401) 822-9105.

    Our COVID policies have recently changed. Here's what you need to know:

    • The library is now open at full capacity.
    • Masks are not required for fully vaccinated patrons, but are strongly encouraged. For the safety of our youngest patrons, if you are unvaccinated, please wear a mask.
    • Reservations are no longer required for computers and there is a 2-hour per day limit on computer use.
    • Seating areas and study tables are available again for patrons to sit and read or study with no time limit. Newspapers and magazines are also available again to read in the library.
    • We are no longer quarantining books and are now accepting donations. We still have the DiscoverBooks donation bin the parking lot as well, for you convenience.
    • Overdue fines at Ocean State Libraries are back in effect as of July 1st, 2021. We have updated our overdue fines - please visit the Policies page of our website for more information. 
    • We are still offering Curbside Pick-up. 

     

    FAQs for Library Patrons - Updated 5/24/2021

    Is the library open at full capacity?

    Yes! There is no longer a reduced capacity limit in the library.

     

    Can I enter the library without a mask?

    As of Tuesday, May 18th, 2021 fully vaccinated Rhode Islanders are no longer required to wear masks indoors or outdoors, in most situations. As a result, fully vaccinated library patrons are not required to wear masks, although we strongly encourage that all patrons wear a mask. For the safety of our youngest patrons, please wear a mask if you are not fully vaccinated.

     

    Is the Book Drop open?

    Yes! Our book drop has had a face-lift – bright green paint and new lettering so it’s easier to spot!

     

    Are the computers available?

    Yes! We have opened up more computers and are no longer requiring a reservation to use a computer. There is a 2 hour per day limit on computer use. Keyboard covers are available by request and wipes and sanitizer are available to use at your convenience.

     

    Is the Children’s Area open?

    The Children’s Area is open for browsing, but the seating and toys have been removed. For the health and safety of our youngest patrons, please wear a mask if you are not fully vaccinated. 

     

    Can I browse the library stacks?

    Yes!

     

    Can I use the restroom?

    Yes. The Men’s and Women’s rooms are open to our patrons and the “Children’s” restroom is now designated as the Staff Only restroom to better maintain social distancing.

     

    Can I read the newspaper or magazines while I’m in the library?

    Yes! We are happy to announce that our seating areas and study tables are available again with no time limit. Magazines and newspapers are also available.

     

    Are fines being waived?

    Overdue fines at Ocean State Libraries are in effect again as of July 1st, 2021. However, Coventry Public Library has updated its overdue fines and we have gone fine-free on most items. Please note that this fine forgiveness applies only to overdue fines. Replacement fees for lost or damaged items are still in effect and overdue fines may still accrue on items from other libraries. For more information, visit the Policies page of our website.

     

    Is the library taking book donations?

    Yes! We are now accepting book donations. We also have two DiscoverBooks donation bins in the parking lot, for your convenience. Please note: The library does not own the DiscoverBooks donation bins. Anything placed in these bins will be donated.