ROCKLAND — In the interest of the health and safety of Rockland Public Library patrons, staff, and the community, the Library is taking the precautionary step of cancelling all Library-sponsored programs, and group meetings, until the end of March, at which time the Library will reassess.

“We will reschedule these events as soon as it is practical to do so and as we are able,” said the Library, in a news release. “Rented spaces may be refunded, or rescheduled. At present, we will continue to honor the existing AARP Tax Preparation appointments.”

At this time, the Library will maintain regular hours of operation, unless, and until directed otherwise by the City Manager. Library staff have been advised not to come in if they feel unwell or if they may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

“Likewise, we kindly ask you to follow the advice of health officials and stay home if you do not feel well or are showing symptoms of a cold or flu, if you have been exposed to someone who may have COVID-19, or if you have traveled outside the United States in the past 2 weeks.”

As posted yesterday, the Library is taking additional steps beyond regular practices to maintain services to the community and do its part to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The cleaning company sanitizes the bathrooms and high-touch areas such as counter and table tops, and doorknobs; staff are using Clorox wipes to clean the keyboards and mice each morning, as well as other highly-used surfaces.

Library Materials Cleaning: Collection materials are not disinfected when they are checked-in or as they are browsed or used in-house due to limited resources and supplies. However, staff are removing toys from the Children’s Room.

Staff and Patron Hygiene: While supplies last, the Library continues to make hand sanitizer available to staff and patrons, and staff are encouraging frequent hand-washing by everyone.

Library Services: By removing some of the seating, the Library is encouraging social distancing, to enlarge the personal space between visitors.

Next Steps: Staff are monitoring this developing situation closely, staying up-to-date on info from the local, State, and federal agencies, health organizations, and other experts. 

Accurate information is essential, not only to calm fears, but to counter misinformation, according to the Library.

“We will continue to communicate any further impacts to the Library,” said the Library. “Thank you for working with us to keep this a healthy environment.”

If you have general questions about Coronavirus or need help in identifying services or assistance you may need, you can call 211 or visit 211-Maine. Maine specialists are available 24/7 to connect you to local programs and services you may need.

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html?s_cid=bb-coronavirus-2019-n...

Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/airborne/coronavirus.shtml

Knox County EMA: www.knoxcountymaine.gov/ema