First, we’d like to welcome all of our newly registered Town of Ulster library patrons! We have had nearly 100 new library card sign-ups in recent months. Seeing new registrations come in while creating new ways to safely serve our community is a bright spot in these crazy times.

While the building is closed to the public we are taking the opportunity to make improvements; upgrading the computer operating system; deep cleaning the building; performing some overdue landscaping and making other needed repairs and improvements to the safety and appearance of the building. 

Currently, the library is continuing with telephone reference, online or telephone materials ordering and curbside materials pick up, a wide variety of online programming, databases, streaming, and other safely deliverable services. These services are all established as part of LEVEL B of a Phased Plan for Reopening, which can be found on the library’s website. 

At the October Meeting the Library Board of Trustees will vote to move to the next level of service. While the start date and other specifics of LEVEL C are yet to be solidified, some hallmarks of the level include:

• A hybrid service model - meaning both curbside and in library materials pick up. 

• Offering both morning, evening and weekend hours. 

• In library computer access.

• Online programming will continue.

• Limited in library browsing at a 25% capacity. 

• Adjustments to the library interior and enhanced cleaning protocols will be in place, and additional safety equipment (such as plexiglass barriers, physical distancing markers.

Once the board has voted and we are sure we can reopen safely, we will inform the community via the website, social media, newsletter, and signage. We ask for your continued patience as we prepare - and we also want you to know that we will watch carefully the number of cases in the area, follow guidance form the county, state and federal government, and use common sense and caution every step of the way to keep our staff and community as safe as possible. We will not hesitate to temporarily close or scale back a service level if circumstances warrant. 

As per Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order, masks/face coverings are required to be worn on library property and while inside the library; patrons or visitors not wearing a face covering will not be permitted to enter and should not interact with staff. 

Given the current situation, we are not accepting book donations until further notice. Please consider that most organizations may also have temporarily stopped receiving items for donation.

Take good care and as always, let us know how we might help -
Tracy Priest
Director

• Curbside Holds Pickup Information
• General Election Deadlines
• Community Resources
• Financial and Food Assistance Information
• Important Phone Numbers

Medicare 101 Webinars

Are you currently enrolled in Medicare? Will you be turning 65 over the next year or two? Learn about eligibility, how and when to enroll, when you can make changes, and the insurance options available to you. This program will simplify the choices you need to make, help you make more well-informed decisions and explain what Medicare means for you!

Learn about:
• Original Medicare
• Medicare Supplement Plans
• Prescription Drug Plans
• Medicare Advantage Plans
• (HMOs and PPOs)

Advanced registration is required. Please pick from one of the following dates:

• Saturday, November 14th at 10AM-12PM – Register here
• Wednesday, December 2nd at 6PM-8PM – Register here

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

This program is sponsored by the Ulster County Library Association. Presenter: James Farnham, MS, MBA, Licensed Agent

After School Program (Online)

Financial and Food Assistance Information

• Past Due Balances are no longer a disqualification for this free service
• No Credit Card or up-front fees will be required
• No Federal or State ID will be required, only proof of address to send the modem.