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Children's Books To Go

The Helen Crocker Russell Library is open for limited front gate service starting October 1. During our phased re-opening, Garden members with a library card can check out children’s and teacher resources books “To Go.” Book pick up and drop off is available by appointment only and limited to Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. The interior library remains closed until further notice.

 

Children’s Books To Go is a service that safely delivers requested children’s books and teacher resources to members. This is a contact-free service where members can pick up their requested books at the library entrance gate. This service is available to Garden members only. Join today!

 

If you need assistance, email Brandy at bkuhl@sfbg.org or call 415-661-1316 ext. 403.

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Check out the latest additions here >>

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Children’s Books To Go work?

  1. Search the library catalog or our subject guides to find available children’s books or teacher resources. Subject guides of children’s and teacher resources are on our website under Library Collections. To set library catalog search filters, go to Advanced Search, Set Search Filters (on far right), then choose “Children” and/or “Children’s Board” and/or “Teacher Resources” and click Save.
  2. Fill out this Google form to request up to 10 children’s or teacher resource books.
  3. Library staff will contact you via email or phone to let you know which items have been checked out to you and when they will be available for you to come pick them up.
  4. Pick up your books. Please arrive with your face covering on and stand six feet apart from staff and other visitors. When you approach the service table, you will be asked for your name and the last four digits of your library card. Staff will place a bag containing your items on the table for you to pick up. Staff will not be able to answer general reference questions at the door.



How do I return checked out books?

We are happy to accept book returns by appointment. Please email Brandy at bkuhl@sfbg.org or call 415-661-1316 ext. 403 and leave a message.



How do I sign up for a library card?

During the COVID-19 closure, library card applications can be submitted via email or phone. Details about SFBG membership and circulation privileges can be found on our website’s Library Card page.



What safety precautions are you taking?

Guidance on safe materials handling has been provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the City and County of San Francisco Department of Public Health.

All books and materials are quarantined for 72 hours after being checked in and before being made available for checkout. Masks are always worn by staff while handling books and materials. A staff person will greet you at the gate behind a table at least 6 feet distant and will handle your bag of books with clean hands. All visitors must wear a mask while interacting with staff.



What is Storytime at Home?

Each Storytime at Home bundle includes a set of 4 books on the same topic or theme and may include fiction and nonfiction titles. Books are available for infants/toddlers, preschoolers, early readers, and advanced readers. Also check out one of our family activity kits (adult supervision required) that include a book plus additional materials to extend the learning experience. Fill out this Google form to request books as part of our Children’s Books to Go service.