Close the Books: Kalamazoo Public Library is Shutting the Doors

Closed for a time during the pandemic and then reopened, KPL is locking the doors once again. Find out how you can still get books and your favorite media.

It's like a bad sequel or realizing 75% of the way through that you've heard/seen/read this story before. Hoping to turn the page on Coronavirus, Michigan has seen a spike in cases recently, putting the state on a bestseller list we'd rather not have such a high position. Keeping public health and safety in mind, Kalamazoo Public Library has announced they will be closing their facilities.

Due to the rapidly increasing number of positive cases of COVID-19 in Kalamazoo and surrounding Michigan communities, Kalamazoo Public Library is prioritizing the health and safety of our patrons and staff and will be offering curbside service only at all five locations beginning Monday, April 12.

-KPL.gov

All five branches are immediately closed from April 8-10 to prepare for the change, and will reopen for curbside pickup only on April 12. While you cannot access the library computers, browse the stacks or thumb through the DVD selections in the buildings, you can peruse the catalog and access many library services online and arrange for curbside pickup- good news for those who need something new to read or listen to and those who may not have streaming services at home and have seen everything Redbox has.

Curbside pickup seems pretty simple:

1. Browse the catalog at KPL.gov and then place a hold on your items.
2. Look for an e-mail, text or phone call when your items are available.
3. Grab a mask and your library card and pick up within 10 days

Get our free mobile app

Online KPL programs will continue to be provided, and you can even check  out a Chromebook and/or hotspot and pick up via curbside service at any KPL location. A closing message sums it up:

Kalamazoo Public Library appreciates the community’s continued patience, understanding, and support of our efforts to keep our patrons and staff safe. KPL looks forward to reopening our buildings for in-person services as soon as a significant, sustained decrease in COVID-19 positive cases in our region makes it safe for us to do so.