Thanks to the American Rescue Plan Act and the Connecticut State Library, Stonington Free Library received funding to purchase a new outdoor book return.

You have probably noticed the spiffy new book drop. It is very dark grey in color, with reflective markings featuring the National Library Symbol, the letter “L” stylized to look like a book and reader. It presents a clean and professional image worthy of its setting on Wadawanuck Square.

More important, the book return is sturdy and secure. Library materials that are returned in the book drop are protected from the weather and kept under lock and key until library staff empties the bin. With a fresh concrete pad from Cedar Ridge, staff members are able to smoothly roll out the interior bin and transfer books into the library building.

The book drop is open 24/7 so that patrons can return materials any time. Thanks to John Turrentine, the book return is installed near the sidewalk so that it is accessible for walk-up use. For those who are driving, parking is available mere steps away from the book drop.

Our book return receptacle is eligible for ARPA funding because it provides a contact-free way for library users to return materials. Minimizing face-to-face contact is one of the best ways to prevent COVID infections, and we want all of our community members to be safe.

Each month, Assistant Director Karla Boeddinghaus Umland will be highlighting services offered by Stonington Free Library.