The branch of the Miami-Dade County Library in Miami Lakes is operating under COVID-19 safety guidelines.
Until supplies run out, the library and other branches in the system are giving away free face masks.
The hours of the branch, at 6699 Windmill Gate Road, are Monday - Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Friday - Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
A week’s worth of Grab and go meals for kids are available every Friday through Aug. 14, from 1 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Bring the child’s school ID, report card or birth certificate.
Food is provided by Sisters for Abundant Living, 305-826-7900.
To comply with social distancing guidelines, 10 computers and four laptops and tablets will be available on a first come, first served basis.
Occupancy will be reduced to 60 people, according to the initial reopening plan.
Those restrictions may limit or delay entrance to the library.
Everyone inside the building -- with the exception of infants or those with pre-existing conditions that affect breathing -- must wear face coverings at all times.
Patrons and staff who enter the library must use hand sanitizer set up at the entrance or wash their hands in restrooms.
They will also be encouraged to wipe down what they touch, such as computers, keyboards, mouses, scanners and copy machines, and after using them, wash their hands.
As for borrowed library materials, due dates are automatically extended and late fees won’t be charged, the county said.
Overdue items can be placed in the book drops, which are also where donations may be left.
The Homework Help and Tutoring Program by certified teachers for K-12 students will continue to be offered online through Aug. 22.
Storytime, STEAM, meditation and book talks will continue on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
The library encourages patrons to order items through its online catalog, mobile app or by phone and then pick them up, in order to reduce time inside the building.
Readers can also download eBooks, audio books, movies and music online.
To apply for an eCard go to ecard.mdpls.org, email customercare@mdpls.org or call 305-822-6520.
The library has forms available for those who need to apply for unemployment, food or Medicaid. The paperwork is in English, Spanish and Creole.
There are also documents to complete the U.S. Census; the Vote by Mail Ballot request form and the county’s hurricane guide.
What’s not available: Newspapers and magazines, which will not be displayed.
Also suspended are public use of library rooms; interlibrary loan and passport services.
Play areas, games, toys and puzzles will not be provided.
--Linda Trischitta