Curbside Pickup and Other Services
Below are the answers to frequently asked questions about the services we are offering while the library building is closed to the public. If you have any additional questions, please email or call the library at (360) 336-6209.
How does your curbside service work?
1) If you would like to use our curbside service, you must first place items on request via our online catalog or by calling the library at (360) 336-6209.
2) When notified that your items are ready, come to the Library during curbside hours. Curbside Hours are Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – noon.
3) Pull into a designated, numbered spot, and call our curbside phone number at (360) 336-6208 when you arrive. There are 5 numbered spots on Snoqualmie St. (the small street between the Library and parking lot) to choose from, and these are marked with curbside signs.
4) Please say in your vehicle, with your windows closed and pop your trunk. If your vehicle doesn't have a trunk, staff will place your bagged items outside of your vehicle. Please retrieve your items after staff have left.
4) We will bring your items out to your vehicle and ask to see your photo ID. Please show us your ID by holding it up to your closed window. Staff will be wearing gloves and face coverings.
How does your personal shopping service work?
Do you miss browsing the shelves at the library? Although it's not quite the same, our personal shopping service helps you to discover new items and get personalized recommendations. After filling out a brief form about your broad preferences, we will curate a bag of books, movies, or audiobooks for your enjoyment.
The form can be emailed to mvlibrary@mountvernonwa.gov (feel free to take a picture of the form or just email the answers), dropped off at the library, or just give us a call at (360) 336-6209 with your answers.
I miss attending programs at the library. What programs, if any, are you offering?
Craft of the Month Kits
Our craft of the month kits for teens and adults contain directions and supplies to create a craft and change monthly. If you are interested in kit, please place a hold via our online catalog, and we will notify you when it is ready for pickup. Available while supplies last.
Virtual Storytimes and Activity Packets
Our Youth Services department is offering virtual storytimes on Tuesdays and bilingual storytime on Thursdays, hands-on activity packets, book recommendations, and videos showcasing fun activities you can do at home. Be sure to follow the library on Facebook, Instagram, or bookmark the Youth Page on our website to stay up-to-date with all the latest youth happenings, as well as other library info.
What are your Curbside Pickup Hours?
Curbside pickup hours are:
Tuesday - Saturday: 10 am - noon
Do I have to call ahead before I show up at the library?
No. You can come to the library anytime during curbside hours. Curbside hours are Tuesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – noon.
Please call our curbside phone number at (360) 336-6208 when you arrive. If you do not have a cell phone, please call us when you are leaving the house, and we will watch for you.
Can someone else pick up my items for me?
Yes. If someone other than the account holder (or someone listed on the account as an authorized user) will be picking up items, the account holder must call us ahead of time and let us know the name of their desired pickup person. We will ask to see that person’s photo ID when they come to pick up your items.
How long do I have to wait to receive items I’ve requested?
We are processing all requests in batches two times daily. If items are on the shelf, they are often ready within 24 hours. Please note this is an approximate time, and staff are working as efficiently as they can.
How will I be notified that my items are ready?
You will be notified by email that items are ready. If you don’t have email, we will call you. If you suspect your contact information is incorrect or needs to be updated, please call our main number at (360) 336-6209.
How long do I have to pick up my items?
You have 5 curbside business days to pick up your items (Sundays and Mondays don’t count) after you are notified that your items are ready. Please note that items are checked out to your account at the time you are notified, so the sooner you are able to arrive, the better.
I saw on my online account that my books are on the hold shelf. Does this mean my items are ready to be picked up?
No. It means we are in the process of pulling orders. Please wait for the email or phone notification that your order is ready for pickup before coming to the library to get your items.
Why are my items in separate orders? Can you combine my items all into one order?
We process requests in batches 2 times daily and put orders together as items become available. Please note that if you continue to place items on hold after you have been notified that you have a pickup ready, you will likely receive separate orders.
We cannot guarantee that all items requested will be in one order. You can choose to pick up items as they become available, or if you know you placed more requests, you may choose to wait a couple days before picking up your order to see if additional items are added. Please note that we cannot make notes as to your specific pickup style preference.
I’m here to pick up my items. Can you see if you have a book/DVD to add to my order?
Maybe. It depends on how busy staff are at that moment. Our first priority is filling orders from existing requests, but we will grab additional items for you if we are able. Expect a 10-15 minute wait.
Do I have to wear a face covering?
We have recently updated our curbside procedure to be contactless. Please remain in your vehicle with your window rolled up and your trunk popped so that we can ensure the safety of everyone. We strongly encourage you to have a mask on hand if we need to speak to you, or if you would like to chat with us. Medical exemptions apply.
Please wear a mask when you are entering the building.
I have books to return, can I hand them to you at curbside?
We ask that all items be returned to our book drops, now located in the library parking lot..
What's with the bus stop in front of the library?
That is our new bookstop! Skagit Transit kindly donated a bus stop to the library so that as the rain inevitably approaches, we have a dry spot to place curbside orders for our walkup patrons.