COVID-19 Updates (Updated 7/21/2021)

Are library buildings open for in-person visits? Yes, VBPL branches are open, except for Oceanfront Library, which is closed for renovations. See our Locations and Hours page for more details.  All dates and services are subject to change.

How can we reach the library with questions? Email library@vbgov.com or call our reference staff at 757-385-0150. 

COVID-19 Practices 

What safety precautions are being implemented in libraries? 
VBPL is following guidelines established by the City of Virginia Beach, the State of Virginia and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in order to ensure the safest possible environment for staff and customers: 

• Please wear a mask if you have not been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
• Sneeze guards have been added at customer service stations.

Expanded Services


The following services were added as of July 21 2021:  
  • Book Nooks   
  • Children’s Rooms  
  • Material donations – Accepted, except for Oceanfront Library, which is closed for renovations, and at Central Library. 
  • Meeting Room Bookings – Call for reservations for dates beginning in July. Not available at Oceanfront Library due to renovations, or at the Joint-Use Library. 
  • Study Rooms – Available, except at the Oceanfront and Joint-Use Libraries. 
  • 3-D Printing
  • Friends Book Shop

The following services are currently unavailable: 
  • Career Coaching  

 ‭(Hidden)‬ Holds & Checkouts
Are you offering holds pick up services? 
Yes, you can pick up holds at any of our open locations. Because of our materials quarantine process, you may temporarily see items on your account as "available", but please do not go to the library until you get an email, text or phone notice from VBPL that your holds are ready.

Are you offering Inter-Library Loans? 
Yes, VBPL is offering Inter-Library Loans during our current phase. 

Is the Orion telescope available for check-out?
No, VBPL has temporarily paused the telescope checkouts due to COVID-19 concerns. If you had the telescope on hold, you will not lose your place in the queue. 


 ‭(Hidden)‬ Library Accounts
​How do I apply for a new library account? 
Customers may apply for a library account online or in person at a VBPL branch. For more information, visit our Library Account page. Virginia Beach residents may call 757-385-0150 for a digital-only account. 
How do I renew my library account? 
You may renew your account in person at a local branch or call 757-385-0150 to renew your account over the phone.
Will Virginia Beach City Public School students still have access to the digital library?  
VBCPS student accounts remain active. Learn more about accessing student accounts. 

 ‭(Hidden)‬ Other Services
​The following services are currently available:
  • Holds pickup
  • Interlibrary Loans
  • Material returns at book drops
  • Notary service - Availablity varies; please call your branch to set up an appointment.
  • Printing services
  • Tax forms Availability varies. Please call before visiting to make sure the forms you need are available.
  • Seed Library

The following services are currently unavailable:
  • 3-D Printing
  • Career Coaching
  • Friends Book Shop and Book Nooks
  • Material donations
  • Meeting rooms
  • Orion telescope checkouts
  • Study rooms

​See below for more information on COVID-19:





Contact Information