Goleta Valley and Santa Ynez Valley Libraries have announced a change in hours for Sidewalk Service.

Starting July 15, Sidewalk Service will be available 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, instead of 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. The change was made for more efficient use of staff resources for both online and curbside services during the hours with the highest demand.

After several months of being closed due to COVID-19, on June 16 the Goleta Valley, Buellton and Solvang Libraries opened for Sidewalk Service and book returns, and a number of patrons have been taking advantage of the ability to borrow library materials again.

To receive sidewalk service and place holds, it is necessary to have a library card issued by Goleta Valley, Buellton or Solvang Libraries. To get a library card, go to your local branch during Sidewalk Service hours with verification of your address. It is also possible to get a card online at the Black Gold eCard Registration webpage that allows access to all the library’s downloadable services.
 
All Sidewalk Service visitors must comply with social distancing rules. To receive service, everyone must wear a face covering and line up six feet apart on the sidewalk leading to the library’s front walkway. Library staff will be following public health safety guidelines as well, wearing face coverings and gloves, and an apron if they are emptying the book drops.

Please be respectful of other patrons and do not come if you are feeling ill.
 
If you notice that material you returned in the book drops are still on your record, don’t worry, library staff are still checking in items, and there may be a delay before the items are reflected on your account. No fines will be charged. The return process is more lengthy due to the need to quarantine materials for one week.

Books can be placed on hold with Black Gold from any of the three library branches only for pick-up at the local branch. The full Black Gold service between seven tri-county jurisdictions will not resume until later this year. After logging into Black Gold, select your library branch to see the options available to you.

For a tutorial on how to place a hold, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vacIFd0u5rc&feature=youtu.be. For more about the Goleta Valley and Santa Ynez Valley Libraries, and the programs and services available, visit www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org.