The North Bay Library is keeping an eye on the Coronavirus outbreak, but for now, remains open with no changes to hours of operation.
"We want to assure the public we are taking recommended precautions to minimize any possibility of exposure," says a news release this afternoon.
Employees are taking precautions:
- Regular cleaning of all contact points, surfaces, keyboards etc..
- Regular, thorough cleaning of all LEGO and foam blocks in the Children’s Department; all stuffed animals will be rotated on a daily basis and sent for cleaning on a weekly basis
- Sterile wipes available for keyboards and mice on all public computers
- Hand sanitizer available in the Main Department, lobby, downstairs areas, and the Children’s Department.
"We have implemented a rigorous and enhanced cleaning protocol for all public touchpoints, including door handles, service counters, and railings," says Chief Librarian Ravil Veli.
The Library asks:
- library users who feel ill or have ill family members to stay home;
- if you have material out, call us and we will extend the loan period.
- cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw the tissue in the trash\
- wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- use hand sanitizer
- refrain from touching your face, mouth, eyes, and nose
- If you are unwell, stay home.
"If you self isolate or are quarantined, we suggest a good book or two to help pass the time.," adds Veli.
For reading material recommendations visit the website.
Meanwhile, the library remains open during March Break but no programming is offered this year due to construction.
Half the library is currently being re-roofed. This is an extensive construction process which includes new steel roof decking as well as support structures and roofing materials. This project has forced the library to reduce the size of Children’s Department, which is now located downstairs in the auditorium.
This ongoing project will be continuing for several weeks which means reduced and limited space available for normal library operations. As a result, there will be no children’s programming offered for any school closure dates.
"The construction has affected all library programming. We will continue to offer the events already scheduled. The public internet computers will remain available for use until otherwise directed by public health to shut them down. Our shut-in service will remain in place for the time being.," explained Veli.
