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Grab and Go service

Most Hennepin County libraries are open to patrons for short visits. See participating libraries and hours.

All visitors to Hennepin County buildings are required to wear face coverings that cover both mouth and nose.

Face coverings can include a paper or disposable face mask, a cloth face mask, a scarf, a bandanna, a neck gaiter, or a religious face covering. A face shield alone is not sufficient. Visitors who wear a face shield are required to wear a face covering underneath it.

If you are feeling sick, do not visit the library.

With Grab and Go you can: 

  • Pick up holds
  • Check out and return materials
  • Get a library card
  • Browse most materials 
  • Use a computer (assistance unavailable, 1-hour daily maximum, appointments recommended)

Meeting rooms, study rooms, children’s play areas, and lounges are closed.

Restrooms are open for patrons, but drinking fountains are not available. Water bottle fillers are available at some libraries.

Exceptions: Franklin Library is only offering computer use by appointment and is not able to offer access to books or other physical materials at this time.

 

Important information for your visit

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Library computers are available to patrons. Many libraries accept walk-in users, but some locations schedule appointments in advance. Call your library to confirm availability.

All computer appointments are limited to one hour, one appointment per day.

Due to COVID-19 safety precautions, staff are not able to offer assistance to computer users. If you anticipate needing help while using a computer, please consider bringing a member of your household for technical support.

Library capacity is limited to allow for physical distancing. If the library meets its indoor capacity limit, you will be asked to wait outside until other patrons depart.

If you are unable to wait, consider calling ahead. Library staff can share information about the busiest days of the week or the quietest times of day.

During the cold winter months, please consider the weather when planning your visit. Due to COVID-19 safety measures, the library does not offer heated or indoor waiting areas.

Please bring your library card and your face covering. If you do not have a face covering, the library will provide a mask for you.

If you anticipate needing assistance at the computer, please bring a friend or member of your household who can help.

Indoor Wi-Fi

Indoor Wi-Fi use with your personal device is not available at most library locations.

These libraries have limited space for Wi-Fi use with personal devices. Please call ahead to reserve a 1-hour appointment.

Outdoor Wi-Fi

Free outdoor Wi-Fi is available at all Hennepin County Library locations from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For information about where to find the strongest signal, please speak with local library staff. Antenna locations vary.

How to connect:

  • Find the “HCL_Public” network with your device.
  • Open your web browser; a greeting page will appear.
  • Read the library’s Internet Public Use Policy and click “I Agree.” No password is required.
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