5/5/20 Library Preparation & Communication Regarding Coronavirus

We would like to communicate with our Gail Borden Public Library District community what we are doing around the Coronavirus (COVID-19) as this virus and recent news reports continue to cause concern for all of us.

 

We would like to communicate with our Gail Borden Public Library District community what we are doing around the Coronavirus (COVID-19) as this virus and recent news reports continue to cause concern for all of us.

The library encourages staff and customers to be aware of prevention measures and to use common sense when gathering in public places.

It is recommended that customers wash or sanitize their hands before using public computers, check-out kiosks or restrooms, as well as before handling materials and other public surfaces such as door knobs. The library also recommends that people wash or sanitize their hands again after all such interactions.

In addition to our normal proactive cleaning procedures, we are continuing to monitor the Center for Disease Control information at www.cdc.gov/COVID19.

  • We have increased our cleaning activity especially with regard to frequently touched surfaces such as railings, door handles, elevator buttons, toys and other hard surfaces.
  • We continue to have hand sanitizers available outside of our bathrooms and at our public desks.
  • We have additional sanitizing wipes that are available for both our customers and staff.
  • We have added additional signage about the need for handwashing.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that coronaviruses do not survive well on surfaces, but are spread most often by small droplets of mucus from the nose and throat. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus, which is why diligent hand washing and sanitizing are so important. However, in addition to fastidious hand washing, the CDC also recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
    • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
    • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

For additional health and safety information, visit: