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COVID-19

Surprise libraries possibly reopening in Nov.

Expanded service now available for customers

Posted 10/7/20

The three Surprise libraries are expanding access with two new programs as it plans to reopen for full in-person use in early November.

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COVID-19

Surprise libraries possibly reopening in Nov.

Expanded service now available for customers

Posted

The three Surprise libraries are expanding access with two new programs as it plans to reopen for full in-person use in early November.

The Maricopa County Library District, which operates the three Surprise libraries, is introducing BrainFuse, a new resource in the library system’s digital offerings, and Pop-In Pickup, the third phase of the district’s reopening plan.

Surprise’s three libraries — Asante Library, 16763 W. Vereda Solana Dr.; Hollyhock Library, 15844 N. Hollyhock St.; and Northwest Regional Library, 16089 N. Bullard Ave. — have been closed to in-person business since the spring because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

MCLD plans to open with full operating hours in early November with new and additional operating policies and precautions in place. 

BrainFuse connects students, job seekers and veterans to on-demand, virtual tools. Likely one of the most valuable aspects to the tool is the BrainFuse HelpNow platform, which connects students with online tutors, homework help, writing labs, test prep, and other online study tools.

The service is free with a Maricopa County Library Card. 

BrainFuse, which cardholders can already use, has three platforms — HelpNow for students, JobNow for job seekers and VetNow for veterans. 

HelpNow connects students with qualified eTutors anytime, anywhere. The on-demand platform offers learners of all ages online homework help, writing lab assistance, test prep and study tools. 

JobNow connects job seekers with qualified job coaches anytime, anywhere. Job seekers can put their best foot forward with a host of services to help in every step of the job search process including professional resume review and live interview coaching.

VetNow is dedicated to connecting veterans and their families to benefits and community resources in education, employment, housing, and health, including navigating the VA bureaucracy, providing academic tutoring and employment transition assistance. 

All of MCLD’s resources for students can be found at mcldaz.org/school.

The Pop-In Pickup program started Oct. 5 where customers are allowed inside the library to pick up holds, handle library card needs and browse a limited selection of the library’s physical collection.

In-person events, computers, recorder kiosks and study rooms are still not available, but all contactless and virtual services remain in place.

Face coverings must be worn for all people 6 and older inside the library. All staff members are required to practice physical distancing and must wear a facemask in common areas and when within six feet of others.

Call MCLD at 602-652-3000.