Phase 3 Policy Beginning 10/01/2021

 

JRVLS Reopening Plan

Phase 3

 

Library operation is subject to maintaining adequate sanitation, health, and protective supplies. The Board will monitor the COVID-19 situation for possible re-evaluation of the library’s service status; a positive COVID-19 test from any library employee will result in immediate closure of the affected library or libraries. The Board will determine the timing of reopening phases based on the evolving situation, and will do so in accordance with recommendations or directives from the Governor’s office and local officials. The following Phase 3 restrictions will be put in place to minimize risks for patrons and employees:

 

Social Distancing

Patrons will be expected to social distance in 6-foot intervals (except for families). Libraries will operate checkout lines with spacing clearly delineated. The meeting room will be closed when not in use.

 

Prevention Measures

Patrons & staff will be strongly encouraged to wear masks. Staff will be encouraged to wear gloves as needed. Staff will be required to use hand sanitizer and/or wash hands regularly. Hand sanitizer will be provided to patrons. State-provided COVID-19 signage will be posted at entrances:

• People with cough or fever must not enter the library

• Social distancing guidelines

• Handwashing guidelines

Staff will sanitize patron surfaces regularly, including restrooms and photocopiers. Staff will be responsible to sanitize their own work stations regularly, including telephones.

 

Limiting Contact with Librarians

Plexiglass sneeze guards will shield checkout stations. Patrons will slip checkout items under plexiglass so librarians don’t need to touch.

 

Limiting Contact with Library Equipment

Patron computers:

• All computers are now open for use

• 30 minute sessions; limit of two sessions per user

• Staff will disinfect between sessions

• Headphones will be kept at the desk (disposable headphones will be distributed on a donation basis)

Toys, puzzles, coloring materials, and similar items will not be available. The telephone will not be available for patrons to make or receive calls.

 

Bookmobile

The bookmobile will be open for patrons during active hours and optimum weather conditions, during which the bookmobile door, lift door, ceiling vents, cab windows, and checkout window will be open to encourage air circulation. Patrons will be allowed on the bookmobile with the following number limitations:

• 2 unrelated patrons at a time

• A pod of people not exceeding 5 at a time (e.g. 1 guardian and 4 children)

• Daycares will be worked with according to number of staff and children

• Protocols will be individualized for schools and daycares

Sanitizer will be available for patrons.

Masks are encouraged for both staff and patrons.

Curbside services will still be available.

 

Staffing Protocols

A staff member will serve as a floater to sanitize high-usage areas, furniture, and equipment in the library. Staff who have fever, cough, or shortness of breath will be expected to remain home. Staff will notify administration if they have had close contact with someone who has or may have COVID-19. Staff who become sick at work must notify a supervisor and go home immediately. During Phases 1 & 2, staff with existing documented vulnerabilities will continue working from home or with modifications. During Phase 3, all staff will be expected to work their normal hours at the libraries, with vulnerable staff using distancing and other precautionary measures to minimize risk. When Phase 3 begins, absences from work will be handled according to the library Personnel Policy.