COVID-19 Resources
Pandemic Policy & Reopening Procedure for Hartford Public Library
Policy Statement
In presenting this Pandemic policy and Reopening Procedure, research was conducted by
consulting online sources presented by the CDC, examining other pandemic plans of other
public libraries, consulting with directors of the Southwest Michigan Library Coop and legal
counsel. Meetings were also conducted with the Library of Michigan. The health and safety of
the public and library staff is a top priority.
This document is subject to change, based upon government orders; the guidance of local, state
and federal health authorities; and advice of legal counsel. The Hartford Public Library Board of
Trustees grants the Library Director authority to administer this plan, and to make changes,
amendments, or alterations necessary to ensure the safety of the public and the library staff.
Procedure
Phase I: Soft Reopening
This phase will likely to last into December 2020.
1. The library hours will be Mon.10am-6pm, Tues.-Fri. 10am-5pm and Sat. 10am-2pm.
2. The Library Director will be designated as a control supervisor who will implement, monitor
and report non‐compliance.
3. All Library staff and library patrons will remain a minimum of six feet apart at all times or
whenever possible.
4. The Library will provide PPE equipment to the staff. The staff are required to wear face masks
when working in the Library or when working within less than six feet of other library staff. Staff
has the option to wear face shields and gloves if desired.
5. Library staff must complete health inquiry prior to starting their daily work. Library staff
exhibiting any symptoms of COVIV‐19 are not allowed to enter the library and must stay at
home.
6. Only 6 people may be on the computers at one time with time limits.
7. Returns are place in the outside drop box or brought in to the drop box at end of circulation desk.
8. Patrons who refuse to abide by the rules will not be allowed in the library and will be
asked to leave.
9. Cleaning: Staff will arrive at 9am for sanitizing procedure prior to opening at 10am.
Computer keyboards and mice , telephone receivers and keypads, cart handles, sink knobs and
toilet handles are to be wiped down.
10. All touch surfaces are to be cleaned such as counter, table, desk tops, door knobs and
handles.
11. Library staff must wash hands, or change gloves or use hand sanitizer between each patron
interaction.
Phase II: Regular Service
1. Library hours will most likely revert to pre‐pandemic norms during this phase.
2. Library events have been cancelled at least until October depending upon pandemic
guidelines.
*Note:
Patrons may appeal a decision to limit or suspend privileges or the conditions placed on
reinstatement by sending written appeal to the Library Board within ten days of the date of the
decision. The appeal should be sent to the President of the Library Board. The decision of the
Library Board is final.
FEDERAL AND STATE RESOURCES ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS COVID-19
Vaccine Information
Everyone has a right to accurate and trusted information, especially around health. Vaccination affects you, your family, and your community.
The Smithsonian has collaborated with cultural organizations in communities across the nation to create Vaccines & US. The resources here will help you make an informed decision about COVID‑19 vaccines and help you discuss the vaccines with your family, friends, and community.
-
World Health Organization: Myths and misconceptions about vaccines
-
National Library of Medicine consumer-level info on COVID vaccines as it becomes available
- Michigan's COVID vaccine information site
All residents are encouraged to visit Michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine for the most up-to-date information about vaccine eligibility, safety information, and clinic locations. Residents who don’t have access to the internet or who struggle to use a computer can also call the COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136, which is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Everyone’s individual situation is different; consult a healthcare provider for specific medical concerns.
Trusted Resources from the State of Michigan
Michigan COVID-19 hotline:1-888-535-6136.
- Find a test site in Michigan
- MI COVID alert app
- State of Michigan searchable COVID FAQ
- Michigan.gov/coronavirus :: Michigan's central repository for information includes:
- Facebook.com/MIGovernment
- Governor's homepage with all State of Michigan updates
Assistance for individuals:
- Eviction Diversion Program (Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth)
- Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is available to provide assistance including food, emergency relief, and housing services.
Information about children and education from the Michigan Department of Education
Assistance for Small business in Michigan:
- Pure Michigan Small Business Relief Initiative
- Michigan Economic Development Corporation :: provides resources for small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
Resources for Employers:
- Employer-specific, sector-by-sector Michigan guidance for re-opening
- US Department of Labor coronavirus Resources
- Common Issues Employers and Workers Face: FAQs from the US Dept of Labor
Trusted Resources from the Federal Government
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention :: Coronavirus facts and guidance from the federal government
- Coronavirus.gov
- Ready.gov/Pandemic :: Pandemic preparedness for your family and your community