Erie County Public Library provides COVID-19 update
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 13, 2020
CONTACT:
Sheryl Thomas
sthomas@eriecountypa.gov
814-451-6911
Erie, PA – Erie County Public Library, in line with Erie County government’s recommended steps, and best practices from peer libraries, has taken measures to protect staff and patrons from COVID-19.
Steps taken include:
- Increased cleaning of public rental and meeting spaces where groups may gather
- Partnered with our evening cleaning crew to use Virex (an industrial grade disinfectant) in their routine cleaning of public spaces
- Relocated existing hand sanitizing stations to increase visibility and encourage frequent use at all library locations, and is expecting additional units provided throughout county branches
- Ensured restrooms at all locations are clean and stocked with soap, reinforcing the CDC’s guidance that washing your hands frequently and for a minimum of 20 seconds is an excellent prevention step
- Pulled all porous and difficult-to-clean toys/stuffed animals from children’s play spaces, and implemented a routine of sanitizing non-porous children’s items
- Encouraged staff to be proactive with additional cleaning measures throughout the day
In addition, out of an abundance of caution, all Bookmobile stops will be changed to drop-offs only. Stops will be contacted regarding any schedule changes. Please call 814-451-6959 for any questions about Bookmobile changes.
At this time, Erie County Public Library’s services have not been affected. Programming and special events are not currently being canceled by library administration.
As a department of Erie County government, the library will continue to follow protocol from County Executive Kathy Dahlkemper’s administration, the Erie County Department of Health, and guidance from the CDC as this community health issue evolves.
Online library resources, including ebook and e-audiobook access are always available: Visit erielibrary.org/services/edatabases/ to learn more. Additionally, library materials checked out to patrons may be eligible for auto-renewal. Library accounts can be accessed at any time to place holds or renew items by visiting catalog.erielibrary.org.
All Erie County government departments encourage staff and visitors to engage in proper handwashing hygiene frequently, make use of available sanitizing stations, stay home if sick, avoid close contact with other individuals, and to cover your cough/sneeze. The most up-to-date recommendations may be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Effective March 12, the Bayfront Bookshelf – a 100 percent volunteer-driven shop supporting the Friends of the Erie County Public Library – located in the lobby of the Blasco Memorial Library, has made the decision to suspend store operations at present. Questions or concerns regarding this decision may be directed to the Friends, at friendsoftheeriecountylibrary@gmail.com.
For more information on COVID-19, view these frequently asked questions for Erie County.
###