Most Stanislaus County Libraries opened for browsing and checkout of materials on Monday, March 22. Capacities will be limited, in keeping with the State of California’s current guidance for opening. Masks and social distancing will be required. In order to maintain capacity limits, libraries are not equipped for group or extended visits at this time.

“We are so happy to welcome the public back into our buildings,” said Sarah Dentan, county library director. “And we are looking forward to expanding in person offerings as we are able.”

Library branches in Riverbank, Oakdale, Ceres, Denair, Empire, Hughson, Keyes, Newman, Patterson and Waterford will be open Monday through Thursday from noon to 6 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Saturday and Sunday.

“We’re very excited to see our customers inside the library,” stated Riverbank Branch Supervisor Vicky Holt, echoing the sentiments of library staffers around the region. “They are now able to come in and browse the collection. They can still use the public computers for one hour a day. We do have a limited capacity and masks are required. I think what we missed most was being able to interact with customers face to face.”

Libraries in Denair and Keyes will continue to offer no-contact pick-up of materials only. The Turlock Library remains closed for expansion and renovation.

Libraries in Modesto and Salida will be open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Friday and Sunday.

Library programs such as Story Time and book discussions will continue to be offered in a virtual format at this time.

The Oakdale library is at 151 S. First Ave.; call 209-847-4204 for more information. Riverbank library is at 3442 Santa Fe and for more information call 209-869-7008.

Additional information about upcoming programs and status of services can also be found by visiting the Stanislaus County Library website, www.stanislauslibrary.org.