Sidewalk Service at the Goleta Valley and Santa Ynez Valley Libraries is changing hours of service. Starting on July 15, 2020, Sidewalk Service will be available Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (instead of Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11:30 to 5:30 p.m.)  The change was made for more efficient use of staff resources for both online and curbside services during the hours with the highest demand.

After several months of being closed due to COVID-19, on June 16, the Goleta Valley, Buellton and Solvang Libraries opened for Sidewalk Service and book returns. It has been wonderful to see the many patrons taking advantage of the ability to borrow library materials again. It is important to note that in order to receive sidewalk service and place holds you must have a library card issued by Goleta Valley, Buellton or Solvang Libraries.  To get a library card, go to your local branch during Sidewalk Service hours with verification of your address. You can also get one online at the Black Gold eCard Registration webpage that allows you access to all of the library’s downloadable services.

Please keep in mind that, all visitors must comply with social distancing rules. To receive service, everyone must wear a face covering and line up six feet apart on the sidewalk leading up to the library’s front walkway. Library staff will be following public health safety guidelines as well, wearing face coverings and gloves, and an apron if they are emptying the book drops. Please be respectful of other patrons and do not come if you are feeling ill.

If you notice that material you returned in the book drops are still on your record, don’t worry Library Staff are still checking in items and there may be a delay before the items are reflected on your account.  No fines will be charged.  The return process is more lengthy due to the need to quarantine materials for a week.

Books can be placed on hold with Black Gold from any of the three library branches only for pick-up at your local branch. The full Black Gold service between seven tri-county jurisdictions will not resume until later this year. After logging into Black Gold, select your library branch in order to see the options available to you. Watch this video for a tutorial on how to place a hold.

For more information on the Goleta Valley and Santa Ynez Valley Libraries, and the programs and services available, please visit www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org.