San Francisco, CA — Mayor London N. Breed and City Librarian Michael Lambert today announced the launch of SFPL To Go, which will enable San Francisco Public Library cardholders to pick up and return their materials at select library locations throughout the City. The new program will roll out in phases with the first locations opening at the Main Library on Monday, August 10^th and at the Excelsior Branch on Tuesday, August 11^th.

“The San Francisco Public Library has significantly increased digital access to its collection during the COVID-19 health emergency, but I know that for many of us nothing replaces the feeling of holding and reading a physical book,” says Mayor Breed. “The launch of SFPL To Go will allow for pick-up and drop-off in a safe and convenient way, and will help provide greater access to resources for our youth who will need extra support to ensure that this academic year is a success. I want to recognize Library staff for their tremendous contributions to the City’s COVID-19 response efforts, from contact tracing to food distribution and community outreach, along with their continued commitment to keeping our Library operating and accessible to all our residents.”

On July 9^th, the San Francisco Public Library Commission endorsed a plan for SFPL To Go, the Library’s version of curbside pick-up. Over the coming weeks, the Library will open more SFPL To Go locations at Mission Bay, Eureka Valley, Merced, and Marina branches. Additional neighborhood libraries will offer the service as staffing capacity allows. Almost half of the Library’s staff are currently deployed as Disaster Service Workers.

Each location will operate under a City-approved Health and Safety Plan and will follow all masking and social distancing requirements and OCLC and Institute of Museum and Library Services’ strict guidelines for materials handling.

“Books are back!” says City Librarian Michael Lambert. “We are thrilled to launch SFPL To Go and to see all of our patrons again at our front doors. We thank everyone for their patience as we implement contact-free service throughout the City. As we look ahead, Library staff will continually reevaluate our operations and develop safety protocols for the next phases of service.”

Library patrons can request a book, DVD, audiobook, LP or any circulating library item for front door pick-up by going to sfpl.org and placing a hold through their library account; by emailing info@sfpl.org or by calling 415-557-4400. Once the item is ready, patrons will receive a notice for retrieval. Book drops will be open only at SFPL To Go locations during operating hours.

All patrons are encouraged to release any holds they may no longer want by August 7^th, so that staff can focus on fulfilling current requests. Materials checked out pre-closure are not due until September 30^th. As SFPL is Fabulously Fine Free, there are no late fees. For more information, visit sfpl.org/sfpl-to-go.

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