Hoag Library in Albion will remain open to public but has suspended special events
ALBION – Hoag Library will remain open to the community during its regularly scheduled hours, although events have been cancelled.
That includes the library’s anniversary celebration planned for this Saturday.
“This was a voluntary event, celebratory rather than necessary,” said Betty Sue Miller, library director. “Many of the library’s most faithful supporters are in a target group for the Covid-19 virus. We will plan an event after that concern has passed.”
The library plans to continue its other regular services.
“We have started the process to expand our internet wireless capabilities,” Miller said. “If schools are going to be closed, many students will be able to distance learn from home. However, many others are in the internet desert that isolates our rural residents.”
The library anticipates some additional demand from local college students, whose campuses have already been closed. The Wi-Fi capability allows internet access both inside the building and 24 hours a day in the parking lot. The facility is large enough for patrons to self-isolate and we can help individuals find safe spaces.
In addition to the daily cleaning routine more stringent cleaning will be added immediately. New signs have been posted suggesting to all staff and patrons ways to minimize risks. Flat surfaces will be cleaned multiple times during the day. Visitors are encouraged to use hand cleaner as they enter and when they leave the building.
Library employees may self-identify in a target group. According to Trustee President Kevin Doherty, “No employee should feel that she or he must jeopardize personal health to fill a library shift. Our intent, however, is to keep library operation as close to normal as possible.”
Although the library’s own programs which bring crowds have been suspended, it will be the individual decisions of groups that use the meeting rooms to determine which of their events will continue. The library meetings rooms do allow participants to spread out and provide the social distancing recommended.
Hoag Library is prepared to adjust to the recommendations of state and local officials, the library said in a news release.
The longer-term plan is to be knowledgeable and responsive. Changes may be required, perhaps even daily, to reduce the infection threat or improve service. The library website is www.hoaglibrary.org.
