COVID-19/Pandemic Reopening

YCL Update

Please Note: As of May 17, 2021, all York County Libraries continue to follow current COVID health and safety protocols which include masking, occupancy limits, social distancing, safety barriers, quarantining of returned materials and frequent cleaning. We continue to ask that all library members and visitors, age two and older, wear masks or other approved face coverings inside library buildings and at outdoor library events. This measure is in place for both vaccinated and unvaccinated members until Pennsylvania’s mask mandate is fully lifted. Anyone who is unable to wear a mask should contact their library to discuss alternative service options.

York County Libraries to add Services & Hours

Starting Tuesday June 1, 2021

York County Libraries will expand in-library services and hours at several locations starting Tuesday, June 1. The libraries will shift from their current browse and go model to one that can accommodate members who want to stay a little longer.

There are two exceptions:

• Kreutz Creek Library in Hellam will continue with lobby pickup only.
• Martin Library in York will not add seating and computers.
• Both are due to current renovation and construction projects

Starting Tuesday, June 1…

Here is a what you need to know:

Collections & Borrowing

• The process for picking up hold items returns to normal. Items that are placed on hold can be picked up at library circulation desks.
  • The borrowing period for books and audiobooks reverts to three weeks beginning June 1.
• The extended four-week loan period was temporarily in place to allow extra time for quarantine protocols.
• Book bundles are available at several library locations
• Wait time for holds will be reduced as library items will no longer need to be quarantined between borrowers.
• Books can be returned at most library circulation desks and book drops.
• High touch items including magazines and children’s board books will be available to borrow. Toys, play items, and STEAM kits will return after the mask mandate is fully lifted.

Library & Programs

• Furniture for seating will be added back at all locations except Martin and Kreutz Creek.
• Indoor library programs will start to return.
• SummerQuest programs will be held virtually and outdoors as planned except in inclement weather. SummerQuest starts June 1!

Public Access Computers & Wi-Fi

• Most York County Libraries* will re-open computer labs and provide indoor seating for Wi-Fi use
• Wi-Fi is also available outside of most libraries on benches or from vehicles.
• Hotspots are available to rent by members wanting temporary Wi-Fi access at home or while traveling. They are available at all locations except Kaltreider-Benfer Library. Contact your library for availability.

* Martin Library and Kreutz Creek Library will not be able to offer these services during construction.

Health & Safety Measures:

• Face Coverings
  • All visitors, age two and older, are required to wear approved masks or face coverings properly while inside library buildings and at outdoor library events.
  • This measure is in place for both vaccinated and unvaccinated members until Pennsylvania’s mask mandate is fully lifted.
  • Anyone who is unable to wear a mask should contact their library to discuss alternative service options.
• Hand Sanitizer
  • Hand sanitizer will remain available for member use at libraries.

YCL Online

As always, York County Libraries provides access to online resources, materials, programs, and library card account management. Explore our website or call your library for details.

Starting June 1: New Library Hours

Library Hours are expanding at several library locations. The following hours go into effect on Tuesday, June 1:

Please Note: Hours and service offerings are subject to change in tandem with significant increases or decreases in York County COVID-19 cases. Check back on this page for the latest information!

Frequently Asked Questions