Pandemic Response
POLICY NUMBER: 204
SUBJECT: Pandemic Response
Answer
SMOKY LAKE PUBLIC LIBRARY
POLICY NUMBER: 204
SUBJECT: Pandemic Response
Date Passed ___June 30, 2020_______ Board Chair _____Lisa Boykiw____________
Reviewed ____September 16, 2020__ Board Chair _____Lisa Boykiw_____________
Reviewed ____February 21, 2023___ Board Chair _____Lisa Boykiw_____________
Background
The Smoky Lake Library Board is responsible for public library services provided to the local community.
At this time, the Smoky Lake Public Library will open under the following restrictions as mandated by the public health authority.
As such, the Smoky Lake Library Board will be operating under the guidance of all guidelines and mandates as outlined by ‘Alberta Health Services’(AHS), ‘Public Library Services Branch’(PLSB) and ‘Northern Lights Library Services’(NLLS).
- Restricted Service Hours
During Pandemic limitations, hours of public service shall be as follows:
MONDAY Closed
TUESDAY 2:00 – 6:00 p.m.
WEDNESDAY 10:00 – 12:00 and 2:00 – 6:00 p.m.
THURSDAY 2:00 – 6:00 p.m.
FRIDAY Closed
SATURDAY/SUNDAY/HOLIDAYS Closed
- Staff hours will include additional time to allow for proper cleaning before and after public hours.
- Access to Services
- The Library will be open to the public during the above-mentioned hours to allow the public to enter the building to pick up books, to browse for books, and to access electronic services such as scan/fax/photocopy services.
- Patrons will be encouraged to only touch items they wish to borrow.
- All patrons will be encouraged to use hand sanitizer before and after entering facility.
- Patrons are advised to follow the guidelines as presented by AHS and should not enter the facility if they have a cough or fever or have travelled outside of Canada within the last 14 days.
- If a patron/guest is exhibiting any Covid-19 symptoms, the Library staff can request that the patron should leave the building.
- Access will be limited based on number of patrons in building at any time, based on recommendations set out by AHS.
- Children under 12 will only be allowed if accompanied by a parent/guardian. Children cannot access computers/toys at this time.
- Children over 12 may access books but not computers at this time.
- Curbside pickup may still be offered to patrons unwilling to enter facility.
- Computer Access
- Computer access will be restricted to adult use only and for a limited time (30 minutes).
- Public access to computers will be limited to only 3 public access computers, one in Health Resource Room and only 2 in center of building to allow for proper spacing guidelines.
- Checkouts and Returns
- As outlined by AHS, library materials will be quarantined for at least 72 hours.
- Patrons will be directed to place returned items in afterhours drop off, or in drop off slot in desk. Staff handling of returned materials will be minimal and with proper hygiene practices until the 72 hours wait period.
- Programming
All in-person programs will be cancelled until at least September 1, 2020.
- Donations
Donations of books/DVDs will not be accepted at this time.
- Staff Illness
- Staff will be requested to follow safe distancing procedures and proper hand sanitizing.
- If at any time a staff member feels they have been exposed to Covid-19, they should immediately inform Board Chairperson. Exposed/sick staff person shall follow all AHS guidelines for isolating and should be tested as soon as possible.
- Alternate staff (clerk) will be called in to cover for affected staff.
- Deep cleaning/sanitizing of facility will be performed.
- In the event that the alternate is also sick, or cannot work with the public for any reason, the library shall be CLOSED until all health guidelines can be met.
- Volunteers
Volunteers will be welcomed during the Province’s Phase 3 opening guidelines.