The D.C. Public Library is increasing its visitor capacity at all its open branches. Starting June 1, guests will be allowed to browse the library’s collection, sit at tables and lounge areas, and use the computers for up to 70 minutes.

The news comes after months of limited service and reduced hours due to the pandemic — and on the heels of newly relaxed mask and capacity guidance from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.

The library’s printers, scanners, and bathrooms, will be available for use. Face masks will be required for all staff and guest, including fully vaccinated residents.

In addition, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, which opened in September, will open its second, third, and fifth floors will be open to guests. At the MLK branch, customers can book appointments to use its labs, adult learning department, and People’s Archive (the Black Studies and Washingtoniana collections.)

The DCPL already has plenty outdoor programming scheduled, and in the coming weeks, it will begin introducing a number of indoor events while reopening its conference and study rooms to the public.

The following locations will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.:

Anacostia, Bellevue, Benning, Capitol View, Chevy Chase, Cleveland Park, Deanwood, Francis A. Gregory, Georgetown, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Mt. Pleasant, Northeast, Palisades, Petworth, Shaw, Shepherd Park, Southeast, Southwest, Tenley-Friendship, West End, and Woodridge.

The DCPL will open its smaller locations — Takoma Park, Rosedale, Parklands-Turner, Lamond Riggs Interim and Northwest One — in the coming weeks, according to a press release.

Previously:
Take A Peak Inside The Newly Renovated Southwest Library
D.C.’s MLK Public Library Boasts New Renovations And Artwork