Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Massachusetts Libraries: Reopening Your Library

Mass.gov: Updated December 13, 2020

In lower risk communities: Gyms, museums, libraries and driving and flight schools will also be permitted to increase their capacity to 50%. Lower risk communities are defined as cities and towns that have not been a “red” community in any of the last three weekly Department of Public Health (DPH) weekly reports.

Mandatory reopening safety standards, recommended best practices and a checklist for libraries. Updated: July 6, 2020. Phase 3.

"The information included here reflects current science and best practices drawn from experts in the field. This guidance can be used by libraries to make better informed decisions regarding their specific HVAC configuration. We recommend that all decisions regarding the opening of library buildings to outside users is done in coordination with local municipal and health department officials."

Building Literacy: Public Library Construction: MBLC Podcast

June 17, 2020: "The Governor’s specific guidance for libraries that was released on June 8 does not include keeping a log of visitors. MBLC does not recommend keeping such a log. We do not see a role for keeping this kind of information according to the state’s current contact tracing strategy."

The MA Board of Library Commissioners and the MA Library System, in partnership with our automated networks, hosted a series of information gathering sessions with members. This resource includes the summary of calls, as well as the notes from individual calls.

Update your library's information in this survey. This will be shared with the library community in a Google spreadsheet. For more information, contact: liz.babbitt@state.ma.us

The list is pulled from libraries reporting directly to the State Aid unit at the MBLC or through the LibWizard form.

Update your information, including COVID-19 status, in the Statewide Library Directory. Share your status (e.g. closed, curbside, open with restrictions), and provide the best points of contact for your library right now, as well as additional information aimed at the public. For more information, contact: paul.kissman@mass.gov

(11/06/2020) "This update builds on the state’s ongoing efforts to refine data that is reported publicly to track the impact of the virus in the Commonwealth."

Use this map to learn about key COVID-19 metrics in your community.

The Baker-Polito Administration’s comprehensive plan to safely reopen the Massachusetts economy, get people back to work, and ease social restrictions while minimizing the health impacts of COVID-19.

The Massachusetts economy will be reopened using a four-phase approach, based on public health guidance.

These new standards will apply universally to all workplaces that are open in Phase 1, and are designed to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission to employees and customers.

"All businesses in the state of MA must develop a written control plan outlining how its workplace will
comply with the mandatory safety standards for operation in the COVID-19 reopening period. This
template may be filled out to meet that requirement."

"In order to reopen your business, please complete and sign the following checklist once you have completed your COVID-19 Control Plan template."

Brooks Free Library, Harwich

OCLC/WebJunction (June 25, 2020): "The examples collected here are focused on public libraries. Examples from additional types of libraries, archives, and museums will be added during Phase 2 (June – October 2020)."

Items placed on table, accepting return of materials

Items placed on table under tent in front of library for pick-up by appointment.

Includes curbside delivery online order form

Items bagged with patron initials on it and placed on a cart, listing of curbside pickup appointment times

Multiple options for placing a hold on items, appointment required

Includes curbside pickup process for drivers, walkers and bikers

The guide features resources for distance education and engagement, free professional development resources, best practices, and up-to-date information from public health officials.

Submitted by the Massachusetts Higher Education Working Group to the Governor's Reopening Advisory Group. May 22, 2020

MSLA facilitated a discussion on reopening school libraries in August 2020 designed as a professional learning community (PLC). We discussed a range of reopening topics including materials circulation and quarantining books, socially distanced library services, modifying the space and adapting services to online and hybrid modes. Members bounced ideas off of colleagues. All were welcome. This was flexible, informal, and virtual with111 MSLA members participating. The results of this important work, including sample plans, resources, and a template, are available on this site.

Reopening plan for Beverly High School, created by high school librarian, Barbara Fecteau.

Vaccine Information for You and Your Family

Centers for Disease Control

"The purpose of the Coronavirus Self-Checker is to help you make decisions about seeking appropriate medical care. This system is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of disease or other conditions, including COVID-19. This system is intended only for people who are currently located in the United States."

Guidance Document (Version 1: May 27, 2020)

These resources are provided to help inform employers and employees about supplies needed to return to workplaces, and connect businesses with manufacturers and distributors.

Everyday Steps, Steps When Someone is Sick, and Considerations for Employers

Includes information about handling materials, handwashing and social distancing posters, and cleaning