Due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases and the upcoming holidays, the Saline County Library board has made the decision to suspend browsing appointments until January 11th.
Browsing appointments made before December 15th will still be honored, but no more appointments will be accepted after. Alternative services are being offered so patrons can still experience the library as much as possible. They will, however, continue offering curbside holds pick-up services and notary services.
Computer reservations can still be made Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at both branches. To make a computer reservation in Benton, call 501-778-4766 and in Bryant, call 501-847-2166. The computer reservations entrance will remain in the same locations – the meeting room entrance in Benton and the teen area entrance in Bryant. If a patron needs to pay for printing, they may pay with cash at the printing terminal or with a card on the computer they are using.
A new service, Curbside Click & Go, allows patrons to have faster service by letting staff know when they are on their way and when they arrive to pick up their holds so the items will be ready as soon as patrons get to the library. By downloading the Mid-Ark Regional Library System app, patrons can pick up their holds using Curbside Click & Go. The app allows you to either use GPS or select an estimated time to let staff know how close you are.
The library will also continue providing the Pocket Librarian service for patrons who miss browsing the shelves. Patrons can fill out a form online, or call the library, to let the librarians know their favorite books, genres, and authors. Librarians will then curate a list specifically for that patron with books similar to their interests. Detailed information about Pocket Librarian can be found on the library website under the “Books & More” tab.
The eLibrary is available 24/7 with free access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, live tutoring, and more. Virtual programming will also continue through the spring for all ages including storytime for children, Minecraft and hangouts for tweens and teens, and trivia and bingo for adults. For a full calendar of virtual events, visit the online calendar.
If you have any questions about your account or need assistance, you can email [email protected].