Update: as of Monday, March 1, 2021, the Library building is once again open to the public. Get complete details.
The Barrington Area Library building is temporarily closed to the public, but many Library services remain available!
Why is the Library building closed?
In November of 2020, another surge of COVID-19 cases arose in Cook and Lake counties and we wanted to do our part to reduce the spread of the virus. We care deeply about the health and safety of the communities we serve, especially seniors, people with underlying conditions, and others who are at greater risk. We are also committed to providing the safest possible work environment for Library staff.
Which Library services are available during the closure?
- Parking Lot Pick-Up, Borrow By Mail, and delivery to our remote locker locations (if they remain open) are available to Barrington Area Library cardholders.
Please note that Parking Lot Pick-Up is available during the following hours:Monday – Friday, 10 AM – 6 PM
Saturday, 9 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, 1 – 5 PM
- Return drop boxes remain open, checkout policies remain the same. Remember: we are now fines-free!
- Phone (847-382-1300), chat, and email service is available during the following hours:
Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 9 PM
Saturday, 9 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, 1 – 5 PM
- NEW: printing, copying, and scanning services are now available via walk-up or Parking Lot Pick-Up. Get all the details and hours of operation. Information about federal and state tax forms.
- Visit our Events Calendar for a wide variety of online programs and registration.
- Apply for or renew your Barrington Area Library card online.
- MakerLab, 3D printing, and digital studio project assistance are available remotely. BALibrary cardholders should email the Digital Services department.
- BALibrary cardholders also have 24/7 access to our outstanding digital collections of e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines and newspapers, streaming movies and TV shows and music, and downloadable music. Students and others with research needs may use our online information databases and homework help.
How can I stay informed about the Library’s hours and services?
We will keep you informed via our website (balibrary.org), social media channels (Facebook and Twitter), and e-mail newsletters. Our response to this situation will continue to evolve, so please stay in touch.
We encourage you to use our phone and chat services for the fastest response to your questions – see hours above. You may also use the Contact Us email form on our website – we’ll respond to your messages as quickly as possible.