The health of our staff and customers is a key priority as we work to limit the spread of COVID-19. The Windsor Public Library Board closed all library locations earlier this week and joined with the City of Windsor to combat the spread of the contagion. Subsequently, the WPLB has made the decision – effective 5 pm today – to instruct all non-essential library staff to remain at home until – at least – Monday, April 6.
Councillor Rino Bortolin, chair of the WPLB, says, “The library board is totally supportive of the decision, which was not made lightly. The closure of large public spaces helps to delay the spread of the virus, which helps to relieve the stress placed on the health system. The health of our staff and customers is our most important consideration and by following the lead of health and provincial authorities, a temporary closing is the most prudent and sensible action to take.”
Windsorites are reminded that all library resources are available online 24/7 at windsorpubliclibrary.com. Although bricks-and-mortar library branches will be closed, your library card provides access to online resources for all ages, which can be accessed any time, and from anywhere. Books, magazines, movies, music – and a long list of databases – are available, free of charge. Last year, digital resources comprised one-third of our total circulation of 1.27 million. If you don’t already have a library card, you can obtain an eLibrary Card here.
All overdue and checked out materials and holds will be extended to Thursday, April 9 and fines will not accrue until April 9. Customers are asked to keep all library resources and materials as the Book Drops will be closed Thursday, March 19. Materials can be returned when we re-open. Access to e-resources have been restored for customers with blocked and expired cards while we remain closed.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Windsor Public Library will keep the community up-to-date on developments with both Covid-19 and the library closure at www.windsorpubliclibrary.com.
