The library at Freedom decided to start curbside pickup for students to check out books they want to read since they can’t go to school to borrow books.

Since schools aren’t open due to COVID-19, many students haven’t been able to checkout and read books. To help students get books in their hands, the librarians at FHS have decided to start curbside pickup for students.

“We are passionate about reading, and passionate about getting books into the hands of our students,” said Jenna Lombardo, a librarian at FHS. “We want our Eagles to know we miss them. Obviously seeing everyone in person is best, but we will continue to connect however we can!”

If students are not sure what to read, they have the option of filling out a Book Shop Form, and will typically receive 3 to 5 books that the librarians choose. Barbra Oliphant, a librarian at FHS, describes how the Book Shop Form works.

“Students just need to give us some information in the form on what their interests [are] and we will match them up with some books,” Oliphant said. 

To checkout books for curbside pickup, students have to fill out the Book Checkout form, which can be found on the library website or the library Schoology course. In the form, students have to put in their name, student ID, the books they want and when they will pick the books up. 

After they fill out the form, the librarians find and check the books out for the students. Students then come on the time they scheduled on the google form to pick up their books. Curbside pickup is only open on Mondays from 1 – 3 p.m. If students cannot make it at this time, they can contact the librarians to schedule a different time or alternative arrangement.

During curbside pickup, students have to drive by the circle at the front of the school. The librarians will be outside, and will come to ask for names before giving the books. When students return books, they will have to drive to FHS and drop the books off in the Library Book Return box, which is located outside of the front door of the school. 

To ensure that everything is safe, the books will be quarantined for at least three days, if not longer. 

By opening curbside pickup, the librarians are hoping that students will checkout and read more books and take a break from screens.

“Stories create human connection and empathy,” Lombardo said. “Gone are the days of boring books with stories to which no one can relate. Our library collection is diverse, and alive, and full of amazing characters! Every single story has a chance to provide mirrors to our students so they can see themselves reflected in the characters, or windows so our students can peek into other worlds, or sliding glass doors so our students can walk in someone else’s shoes.”

To join the library schoology, use this code: 3SQ6-V6XV-ZG6HC