[Publib] closing a branch for work

[Theyer, Hillary]

We are getting ready to start closing branches for new shelving and carpet.  Each branch will be closed for 4 - 6 weeks with the collection not accessible and the furniture moved.  Staff will go work elsewhere during this time.  We will close them one at a time, and each is no more than three miles from another library.  Our team is putting together a closing and security plan.

If you had to close branches for lengthy work did you keep the bookdrops open and send someone to get the contents in a van, or just close the bookdrops as well and direct people to the next nearest library?

Did you do extended checkouts around the closure, and how well did that work to prevent returned materials from piling up somewhere?  Or, will people just return their materials anyway so why bother?

How often did Library staff (not just the project manager but the branch staff) go check on work or on the building?  Twice a day, or once daily is what we are thinking, but should it be more?  Staff will be close by.

What kinds of problems occurred that we should be ready for?

Thanks for all your advice, and you will probably see this question posted in other places as well.  I'll gather all the wisdom of Library Land and post it, as well as the results of our first adventure into closing a branch for a long period of time for significant work.

Hillary Theyer
Torrance PL (CA)