CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Public Library has announced that is is closing its doors until further notice. All programs, services, outreach activities, and meeting room reservations have been cancelled.
The library says it will continue to provide brown bag meals to children Monday-Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Main Library and the 27 neighborhood branches.
Voters will also be able to utilize designated branches as polling locations for next Tuesday's primary election.
“This was a difficult decision for the staff at Cleveland Public Library. We know how much our community depends on us. We hope our closure will keep our employees and patrons safe and healthy and reduce exposure to this disease,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library. “We are strongly encouraging patrons to utilize our online services. Patrons with materials already checked out should keep them until further notice.”
Digital and streaming services at Cleveland Public Library include e-books, audiobooks, movies, and music. Patrons can access those services here.
In addition, Cleveland Public Library has compiled a list of resources and materials to help students maintain their reading skills and prepare for state assessment tests while schools are closed. Parents and students can click here for that information.
On Wednesday, the library announced that it had canceled all major programs and events in March and April 'out of an abundance of caution to protect its staff and patrons' against coronavirus.
Here is a list of canceled programs:
- Legal Aid at the Library - March 14
- Progress with Chess - March 19 & 20
- Free Tax Preparation by VITA volunteers/ World Day of Puppetry - March 21
- CPL Play - March 28 & April 25
- Community Open Houses at CPL Branches - April
- Radio One Empower One - April 18
- Girl Power - April 24
In addition, the library has suspended all staff travel for March and April.
The library says it is increasing the frequency of cleaning in high traffic areas and “high-touch" surfaces and objects such as computers, door handles, and elevator buttons. Toys, kits, and other “high-touch” objects have been removed from public use. Library employees will wear gloves to handle materials.
More than 45,000 visitors come to the Cleveland Public Library each week.
Cleveland Public Library is also asking patrons and Library employees to follow the preventative measures outlined by the CDC.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
We have a special section of our website devoted to coronavirus. Click here for more.