Precautions being taken to help contain the spread of COVID-19 In an effort to reduce exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19), public programs and meeting room use in Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries are cancelled through (at least) Saturday, Mar...

Precautions being taken to help contain the spread of COVID-19

In an effort to reduce exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19), public programs and meeting room use in Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries are cancelled through (at least) Saturday, March 28.  All libraries remain open to the public and continue to offer traditional library services such as book and media borrowing, in-library free WiFi, public computers, and Census 2020 information, as well as online resources, databases, research tools, downloadable eBooks and music.

The community is encouraged to contact their individual library or visit the Library System website at www.BuffaloLib.org for more details and updates.

“At this time of uncertainty, our libraries are taking precautions suggested by the Erie County Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and other experts to help contain the spread of COVID-19,” said Library System Director Mary Jean Jakubowski.

“While all libraries remain open to the public, we are practicing social distancing inside our buildings by spacing furniture and public computers where possible.  Public areas are equipped with hand sanitizer and tissues.  CDC COVID-19 signage is posted – encouraging hand washing and demonstrating other preventative measures.  Library staff has been provided guidance on precautionary methods as well.  To support the overall health and wellbeing of our community and employees, the Library on Wheels bookmobile will suspend operations early next week.  We are also implementing a process to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission through material handling,” added Ms. Jakubowski.

The Buffalo & Erie County Public Library will continue to assess the situation to determine future plans.   We encourage the public to visit the Library System website and social media for updates at www.BuffaloLib.org, https://www.facebook.com/buffalolibrary.central/ and https://twitter.com/buffalolibrary.   Additionally, the Library website has a section on the homepage for updates on COVID-19 and the 2020 Census.