Among the many challenges brought to the forefront by COVID-19, one is almost universal: Boredom.

With nonessential businesses closed, the region’s entertainment options are diminished. As the pandemic drags on, the stream of fresh television shows seems to be slowing and new hobbies are getting old. For months, now, the doors of libraries have been locked to patrons — limiting access to an important public space and restricting the number of unread books available.

But while the physical buildings have remained closed to the public, programming has continued in a digital space. Storybook readings have been held via social media platforms; book discussions were moved to a virtual format; many libraries have been collecting the stories of area constituents to preserve local history; tutorials and entertainment options like movies were made available online early on.

And as the state moves toward reopening, there’s light on the horizon: Curbside pickup for libraries.

Recently, area libraries including the Carnegie Library, Montague Center Public Library and Millers Falls Library in Montague, as well as other towns, began holding limited hours during which patrons can request items by phone or digitally and then pick them up while maintaining social distancing requirements. To return items, patrons leave them in the outdoor drop-off bins. Staff members then “quarantine” the items for a number of days and disinfect any plastic surfaces before restocking them. Patrons who are sick should not return materials until they have recovered.

It’s a timely and positive step that we’re pleased to see.

“People are at home. They’re starting to get bored,” speculated Mike Nelson, a member of Montague’s Selectboard at a recent meeting during which they agreed with the library’s plans to reopen.

According to Montague Libraries Director Linda Hickman, future progress toward fully reopening will be determined by the state. In Phase 2 of the four-phase plan to reopen, it might be possible to allow a few people into the library at a time, but she said she expects more specific guidance from the state Board of Library Commissioners.

“This is all on an experimental basis,” Hickman said. “We’re going to see how this works. I’m sure there’s going to be some fine-tuning involved.”

Amid the disconcerting events of recent days, seeing libraries begin to move toward reopening is a welcomed development.