Caledon Public Library celebrates official launch of Inglewood Library’s Extended Access

By Riley Murphy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

This weekend officially marked the launch of extended-hour access available at the Inglewood Library branch.

Extended access provides registered customers with access to the Inglewood Library branch, outside of staffed hours, during predetermined blocks of time.

With the extended access, registered users will now have access to the Inglewood Branch consistent with the hours at other full-service branches.

Registered customers can browse, pick up holds, use the Public Access Computers, print, and check out materials using the self-service technology.

“This is an opportunity for us to really respond to what our customers need and be more flexible in terms of what we're offering,” shared Colleen Lipp, CEO and Chief Librarian at the celebration.

She shared this is just one of the recommendations in the Library's long-term plan to meet the needs of Caledon's growing population, while also enhancing services to Village branches.

“The services are just growing and growing and growing,” remarked Councillor Lynn Kiernan for Ward 1. 

She says that the new system is going to be “golden.”

“Learn how to sign up, make sure you've got your library card, it's an easy system, and then you can come in and utilize this library any time the major branches are open and operating.”

Regional Councillor Early for Wards 1, 2, and 3 remarked that the extended hours are “absolutely brilliant” from a stance of the challenge of staffing smaller branches.

Board Chair Tony Maxwell shared that the extended hour access is an example “of creativity and innovation to bring these services cost-effectively, so that smaller communities can have virtually equivalent service as larger communities.”

After the celebratory ribbon cutting, attendees were invited to stay for a special story time, a CPL 3D Printer demonstration, trivia, prizes, and more.

The library will have video surveillance in place for Extended Access Hours, and customers can reach staff members at surrounding branches using the branch phone in case of questions or an emergency.

To find out more about Extended Access Hours and signing up, visit caledon.library.on.ca/access.