Contactless Curbside Services

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

 Do I have to pick up my holds now?

No, this is an optional service. Your current hold(s) will be held for 2 weeks after you receive your notification.  

How will I be notified about my hold?

Depending on how your library account is set up, it will be either an email, text message, or phone call. The Library highly recommends updating your notice preference to email or text. Email Circulation@sanleandro.org for more information.

How long will it take for my hold to be ready?

If the item you requested is showing a checked-in status, it should take around a week for it to be available to pickup. We are unable to give an estimate for library materials that are currently checked out. 

What are you doing to protect the safety of library members and staff?

The following steps are being taken to ensure everyone’s safety:

• Staff is wearing face coverings, frequently washing hands, disinfecting surfaces, and practicing social distancing.
• Preliminary research suggests that COVID-19 can only survive on surfaces for 2-3 days and on paper/cardboard for 24 hours.
• When we receive materials, they are quarantined for at least 24 hours before being handled.
• We are limiting the number of staff who handle the items you have requested.
• Disinfecting books with bleach and other cleaning products is not recommended. If you have concerns about handling items from the Library, you can simply leave them in the bag for 24 hours. 

How do I return materials?

The Main Library book drops are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Library due dates are back so please return items on or before their due date. Please note that newly returned items are being quarantined for at least 24 hours, so please do not worry if items are not removed from your account within a day or two after being returned. Please visit our Library Guidelines page for more information about due dates, automatic renewals, and how the San Leandro Public Library is now fine free!

What if my hold is at a location not offering no contact pickup service?

We have temporarily transferred all existing holds to the Main Library. For the time being, all holds will be available for pickup at the Main Library only.

Do I need a library card?

Yes, you need a San Leandro Public Library card to borrow physical library materials. Visit our website to apply for a library card online.  

What materials are available for pickup?

Physical library materials such as books and DVDs.  

What if I’m over the checkout limit?

Staff will override checkout limits.

I prefer to browse the library collection. Can I just come in and safely look at the collection?

The Main Library is starting its Limited Reopening service starting Wednesday, May 19! This means that you can come in and browse our collection, use a computer, or check out your holds. To learn more, visit our Limited Reopening webpage. 

Can I place a hold via telephone?

Yes, please call our reference phone line 510-577-3971, Monday-Saturday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm to talk to a librarian and get assistance in placing materials on hold.

When will you add more no contact pickup service locations and how were locations chosen?

San Leandro Public Library will evaluate the response of our communities and potentially add more libraries to meet demand, as safety and staffing permit. 

• The locations were chosen based on several criteria, including:
• Number of existing holds
• Geographic location
• Size of physical collection
• Building layout allowances for safe social distancing of staff
• Building exterior features including parking lots

When will the Library reopen?

The Main Library is starting its Limited Reopening service starting Wednesday, May 19! This means that you can come in and browse our collection, use a computer, or check out your holds. To learn more, visit our Limited Reopening webpage.