FAQ's: Home

We are working to answer your questions as best we can during this time of transition and uncertainty. Here are the answers to some more frequent questions we have been receiving.

 

1. When should I reopen my library?

The decision to reopen should be made by your Library Board at a regular or special session meeting.

 

2. How many patrons do I allow in my library?

Your Library Board should decide how many patrons are allowed in the library in order to comply with the Governor’s order. It is recommended by the ADPH to allow 50% of the building capacity to enter the building, in addition to complying with the 6-foot social distancing rule.

 

3. How many staff members should I have working?

Your Library Board should decide how many staff members are allowed in the library in order to comply with the Governor’s order. It is recommended by the ADPH to allow 50% of the building capacity to enter the building, in addition to complying with the 6-foot social distancing rule.

 

4. Can libraries be more restrictive than what the Governor's order calls for?

Yes. Your Library Board can decide what restrictions to put in place.

 

5. How do I disinfect my library?

Please refer to the Health and Safety in the Library section of this LibGuide for specific information. This article posted in Library Journal is particularly informative.

 

6. Do I have to open my library?

Please consult with your Library Board to determine when your library will reopen.

 

7. Can our library refuse service to individuals who appear to be ill?

Please consult with your Library Board to develop and publicize a policy.

 

8. Should we open our book drop?  Or keep it closed?

Please consult with your Library Board after reviewing the following information here.

 

9. Can we provide curb-side service?

Your Library Board needs to be consulted to decide if your library wishes to provide curb-side services. Check out safety practices for offering this service here.

 

10. Should we have on-site programming?

According to the Governor’s orders of 5/21/20:  “Effective May 11, 2020, all non-work related gatherings of any size, including drive-in gatherings, that cannot maintain a consistent six-foot distance between persons from different households are prohibited.”  If you can maintain a six-foot distance between ALL participants, then you may conduct on-site programming with the approval of your Library Board.

 

11. What programming options do you suggest?

APLS has gathered information and ideas for online programming and off-line programming. It can be found in the following sections: COVID-19 Youth Services Resources, Summer Library Program, and Additional Programming Ideas.

 

12. What about Summer Library Program?

We know everyone is concerned about the Summer Library Program. We’ve got a few experts on hand, and they have compiled multiple options. Please refer to the Summer Library Program section of the LibGuide as well as COVID-19 Youth Services Resources and Additional Programming Ideas.

 

13. Should library staff wear masks and/or gloves? Should patrons? Can I require them to do so?

There is no requirement for making patrons wear a mask. The CDC recommends that people wear a cloth face covering to cover their nose and mouth in the community setting. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms. Additionally, the CDC has made no recommendation that the general public should wear disposable gloves to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, the agency does recommend that people wear disposable gloves when caring for someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, particularly when handling their laundry and when coming into contact with bodily fluids.