In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations everywhere have been forced to find ways to operate while socially distanced, and the Public Library of Catasauqua is no exception to that.

Now that Lehigh County has been in the green phase for a while, the library, located at 302 Bridge St., opened its doors July 15.

Patrons are allowed inside the main library building, but only five patrons are permitted inside at a time. The narrow aisles of book shelves within the library will be limited to one person at a time. The library’s size makes it a difficult place to socially distance, so this reduced capacity is the best way to achieve that.

Masks are mandatory to enter the building. Also, an appointment is necessary to use a computer.

The library is also continuing contactless book rentals. Patrons can call in and request books to rent. The library staff then leaves those books at the front entrance in a clean plastic bag marked with the patrons’ names. Once the books are returned, they are isolated for 72 hours to avoid any potential cross-contamination with the rest of the library.

The need for social distancing has also changed the library’s plans for its youth programs, which are particularly active during the summer. One such event was further disrupted by threatening weather forecasts.

The library planned an all-ages gardening event for July 7, which was to be held outside. A section of Third Street, just outside the library, was to be closed so visitors could gather at a distance to plant flowers in pots, using materials provided by the library.

Unfortunately, thunderstorms were expected for the day of the event, so the plans were changed. Library staff members decided they would assemble the flower pots themselves and hand them out to visitors throughout the rest of the week.

In a couple of hours, they put together 45 pots, with flowers purchased at Lowe’s and soil donated by Colonial Landscapes, located on Front Street. Every flower was also topped with a colorful paper butterfly.

The next library event in the Imagine Your Story summer program will be Choose Your Own Adventure, scheduled for 2 p.m. July 21, for children and teens and led by Karen Maurer. This event will take place in front of the library on Third Street, which will be closed off. Those coming must wear a mask. The rain date is July 28.

As the rippling effects of the coronavirus make frequent changes to our daily lives, it has become clear that adaptation to the circumstances is crucial. Thankfully, the Public Library of Catasauqua has stepped up to that challenge and is finding new and inventive ways to serve the community.

To make an appointment to use a computer or to pick up books, call the library at 610-264-4151.