Dear All,
Below is information about Children’s Programming being canceled for now. This does not affect Teen or Adult Programs. Please do remember that masks are required by all those who are visiting our libraries.
Sincerely,
Janice McHenry
News From Your Library
Dear Library Patrons,
We are disappointed to inform you that beginning on September 20 we will be canceling all in-branch children’s programming until further notice. We were looking forward to hosting storytimes and our extensive offering of toddler and preschool programs this fall, but due to the increase of Covid-19 infections and positivity rates in children within Marion County, we have made this decision to help protect our youngest patrons, who are ineligible to be vaccinated. You may have seen recent news stories about a shortage of hospital beds at Riley Children’s Hospital or entire classrooms undergoing quarantine due to Covid-19 outbreaks. We do not want to add to risks that might cause a child to miss school, and we do not want to contribute to rising case numbers.
Your child can still use the Library by:
Coming in and browsing our shelves for books, movies, and music
Enjoying one of our computer stations
Selecting materials for curbside pickup
Attending one of our virtual programs on our Youtube or Facebook
Downloading or streaming thousands of books, movies, and music for free online
Learning a language, exploring a new craft, or discovering something new through our online resources
Attending one of our many online Zoom programs for kids
At this time, we are not canceling teen or adult in-branch programming, although we still will require face masks at all times within libraries. We will be offering vaccine clinics at some of our branches and we urge you to get vaccinated if you have not already. Already been vaccinated? We will also be hosting blood drives at many of our locations.
We want to remain open to serve our entire population including children, vulnerable populations, and those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical conditions. We want to protect our front-line staff, who has been diligently working throughout the pandemic to provide support and help to our community. Like many of you, we long for the day when Covid-19 is behind us and we can provide our full range of services, but unfortunately, we are unable to do that at this time.
Sincerely,
Your Library Staff
Covid-19 Update
In accordance with the most recent CDC guidance, beginning Tuesday, September 7, all staff and all patrons (ages 2+) regardless of vaccination status will be required to wear masks in all areas of library buildings. These procedures may be updated at any time. For updates, please visit here.