DALLAS — As public spaces across the state start to reopen those who use libraries are returning to the bookshelves. 

For the last 14 months, many branches have kept their doors closed since the onset of the pandemic in March of last year.

In Dallas, 28 branch locations have reopened. Minutes after staff at the Polk-Wisdom Branch Library, located at 7151 Library Lane, opened their doors Dallas resident, Lorean Jenkins, was there to take advantage of the free internet.

“Before the pandemic, I was a regular here. It’s good to be back,” said Jenkins as she sat at the computer desk. 

Jenkins lives a short drive from the library and although she has a computer and internet at home, she prefers the peace and quiet she gets at this branch. 

“Today, I’m here because I think my husband’s identity has been compromised," she said. "An unemployment compensation claim was opened in his name, and my husband has only filed for unemployment once in his lifetime and that was many years ago.”

Jenkins said she knows very little about how to fix this problem and planned on asking for help from branch manager, Latari Prater, if she needed it.

“It’s nice to know if I need help, the staff here is willing to point me in the right direction.” said Jenkins. 

Pictured is a wall decoration made by library staff that reads ‘Welcome Back’ at the Polk-Wisdom Branch Library located at 7151 Library Lane, 75232. (Spectrum News 1/Lupe Zapata)

Prater has been in charge of this branch for the last seven years and spent days before the reopening making sure everything was perfect for visitors like Jenkins.

“I hope they feel that they are valued, that we actually take the time to help them with any problem that they have,” said Prater.

Although the library experience looks different for the time being, she hopes the new rules set in place don’t discourage the community from visiting. 

New safety precautions include:

  • Limited capacity: 25 people per branch; Limit 25 per floor (1-5, 8 only) at the Central Library
  • Masks must be worn at all times for any visitors ages 2 and older. All library staff are required to wear masks, as well
  • Sanitize your hands when you enter the library building and before using the computer
  • Maintain at least six feet of distance between yourself and other visitors and staff
  • No food and drink at this time

After months of only being able to offer curbside pickup, Prater and her staff are excited to welcome families back inside. While some library branches reopen, others are still limited in services or closed altogether.

The Renner Frankford Branch remains closed for repairs, following damage from the winter storm.

Bookmarks at NorthPark Center continues “Library To Go” service only.

For more information, contact your preferred library location.

If you have an interesting story or an issue you’d like to see covered, let us know about it.  Share your ideas with DFW reporter Lupe Zapata: Lupe.Zapata@Charter.com