MLS/MBLC Guidelines for Reopening Physical Spaces and Recovery of Services: Reopening MA Libraries

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented change to almost every aspect of American life. As we move though this time, changes to our libraries’ operations will need to be adaptive to situations as they unfold.

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. The results of the sessions brought up several of the most critical concerns our libraries face when considering the re-opening of their physical spaces. Among them: safety for staff and patrons, materials handling, budget reductions and staff level reductions, and managing expectations. Additionally, we learned that many of you have some suggestions and ideas you are exploring. 

Below are the links to the summary of calls, as well as the notes from individual calls. 

NEW!

We've added some helpful documentation to assist with your planning, including the Reopening MA Library Guidelines, Roadmap, and Plan Template, as well as an FAQ document. All of these are living documents, and will be updated as new information is released. 

Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions. Our contact info is listed in the box on the right of this page.