Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the library board has decided to CLOSE the library to help slow the spread of this virus. As of now, the library will be closed beginning March 17 through at least April 9. The full statement follows.
News Release and Public Information Announcement
GERMANTOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY Closure March 17-April 9, 2020:
After much deliberation, the Germantown Public Library District Board of Directors voted at a special meeting held March 16 to close the library to the public to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). Closure will be in effect Tuesday, March 17 through Thursday April 9, 2020.
On March 13, Governor Pritzker mandated that all schools in the state be closed. Since then, the Illinois Library Association has recommended that public libraries close their doors and library staff stay home as much as possible. In addition, the Illinois Heartland Library System has suspended delivery of materials among libraries. So, for the safety of staff and patrons, as well as an obligation to be part of a community effort to minimize the strain COVID-19 will have on our local health care systems, we have sadly taken this needed action.
Here’s what the closing will entail:
- Overdue fines will not accrue for the dates we are closed, March 17 through April 9. All items currently checked out will be renewed until the library reopens. You may renew your items online or call us to renew.
- Books should NOT be returned. Our book drop will be locked during the time the library is closed. Please hold all library materials until we reopen.
- If you had items requested, your request will be filled when we reopen and interlibrary loan delivery resumes.
- We are unable to accept donated items at this time.
The library hopes to continue to support the community as much as possible during these difficult and unusual times. The following services will continue during the closure:
- Staff will be at the library for some part of each day we would have normally been open, to offer phone and email assistance. Please call us at 523-4820 or email gma@gtownlibrary.org with any questions or concerns. We will get back to you as soon as possible. You may also leave messages on our Facebook page.
- Wi-Fi will continue to be available on library grounds.
- Electronic Resources: eBooks and eAudiobooks are always available online through our website www.gtownlibrary.org You can also download the free Cloud Library app via yourcloudLibrary.com or from the Apple App or Google Play stores.
- Access to World Book Encyclopedia online is available from our website. Explore our website for more resources and ideas under the “Book Lover’s Links†and “Kids Corner†tabs.
- Fax and copy services are offered at Germantown Bank and Trust. Call them first at 523-4202 to be sure of availability and prices.
We are taking steps to ensure the Germantown community has access to information and resources during this time. Patrons should refer to the library’s website, www.gtownlibrary.org, Facebook page or phone line, 523-4820, for up-to-date information regarding our closing. You can help prevent the spread of the virus through the library and its materials by refraining from eating while reading and do not lick your fingers when turning the pages of a book. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
We understand and apologize for any inconvenience but feel we must prioritize the safety of our staff and the public. Thank you for your patience, understanding and patronage. Please remember the situation is rapidly changing and we will constantly re-evaluate and make changes as needed based on community conditions and guidance from public health officials.
Joan Young, Library Director
Board of Trustees, Germantown Public Library
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