CCL postpones activities, but stays busy
The Colby Community Library (CCL) building has been closed since March 17, but patrons have still been using e-books and e-audio books offered by the CCL though Wisconsin Valley Library Service. A current library card and compatible electronic device are all you need to enjoy this free service.
Patrons have also been accessing the Stuck at Home link on the CCL website to find things to do while homeschooling and now during summer vacation.
Wi-Fi is always accessible in the parking lot at the CCL.
Since the beginning of May and continuing through June, curbside pickup has been offered. Over 200 patrons have made use of this easy-to-use service.
The Summer Reading Program is postponed until 2021. While everything was ready to go this year with a great “Imagine Your Story”-themed program filled with activities, prizes, programs, and crafts, it was determined that due to COVID-19 precautions in public spaces, the program could not be offered. All the great ideas will be saved for 2021 for an even bigger and better program.
To help maintain reading levels attained this past school year, families are encouraged to order a selection of books for students to be picked up curbside. The CCL staff is excited when asked to find assortments of books when given reading levels and interests of students.
Collecting books and movies
Cheese Days is cancelled, but Forward Bank’s Colby location is still collecting gently used books, DVDs, and CDs until July 1 for a Friends Book and Movie Sale. The bank’s lobby may be closed, but Forward staff will watch for you Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Co-chairs Vicky Fischer and Traci Geiger will watch Wisconsin COVID-19 data to determine when it is safe to hold the sale.
The Aug. 22 CCL amphitheater concert has been cancelled. The band, 40 Fingers, will be contracted for 2021, as will the beverage and food trucks. The library hopes to have the “Chair Affair” auction next year, too.
1,000 books extended
1,000 to 4,000 books B4 the End of Kindergarten continues. It has been extended to the end of 2020 for those in kindergarten who are trying to finish their folders. With the CCL being closed and students having an unusual end to the school year, kids are encouraged to keep reading to continue your quest to earn prizes at each 100-book milestone.
Welcome Baby Bags
If you had a baby during the COVID-19 shutdowns, the CCL has a Welcome Baby Bag filled with handmade gifts and useful information for your little one. Call the library to set a curbside appointment to pick up your bag.
Adult challenges
The “Focus on 2020” Adult Reading and Movie Challenges continue through Dec. 31, 2020. Abby/Colby Chamber certifi cates will be the prizes in the drawing for the winners, as using them is a great way to support local businesses.
Curbside pickup continues in June: Tuesdays from 1-4 p.m. on and Thursdays 3-6 p.m. Go online, email director@colbypubliclibrary.org or call 715-223-2000 and leave a message to place requests. (Callers: There is only one phone line, so when you get through, leave a message with your request.) Staff will contact you to schedule a pickup time. The building is closed, but the book drops are open for returns.
Reopening plans
The CCL plans to reopen on Monday, June 29.
While CCL staff is excited to welcome back patrons, COVID-19 precautions need to be put into place. Watch for the new schedule of days/hours of service and safety procedures.
