The Pierce County Library System, hoping to help patrons reduce exposure to and spreading of COVID-19, is offering free online resources from the comfort of their homes and curbside service in their cars.

At polariscatalog.piercecountylibrary.org/POLARIS/search/misc/esources.aspx, the public can learn from and enjoy topics from automobile repair to consumer information to genealogy. It’s all accessible 24/7 from computers and mobile devices.

In addition, online e-books, audiobooks and magazines are available at www.piercecountylibrary.org/books-materials/audiobooks-ebooks/Default.htm. So is a virtual library that includes staff-produced videos (live and recorded) of book discussions, cooking lessons and other activities for adults.

While online service has always been available, it took on more importance when the library system (PCLS) closed its branches to the public in March as a health and safety measure in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The buildings have reopened only for curbside service,.

In recent months, PCLS surveyed the public about how to provide library services during the closures and after library buildings eventually reopen. Of the 2,603 people who participated in the survey, a combined 70 percent said they would be “very” or “somewhat” comfortable to return to the buildings, 79 percent value e-books and audio books, 81 percent wanted to check out hardcopy books, and 82 percent valued curbside service, in which reserved items can be picked up by appointment.