MFL Update-Monday, March 16th

Dear Middletown Free Library Community,

As you know we had to close the library to the public before our anticipated date. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as the situation changed very rapidly from day to day. I anticipate that this will continue to be the case as more testing occurs and new guidelines and recommendations go in to place.

This morning some of the staff met at the library, keeping social distancing measures in mind, to brainstorm ways we can continue to provide services while our doors are closed to our wonderful patrons. You should be so proud of this dedicated and creative group of people who make up our team at the Middletown Free Library. We will be rolling out virtual programs throughout the week to help keep you connected with the library and each other.

We have also made the tough decision, should the library be able to re-open on March 30th, to cancel all in-person library programming through Sunday, May 10th. The current CDC recommendation is to cancel all gatherings of more than 50 people for the next 8 weeks, keeping this guideline in mind and the fact that our library serves many vulnerable groups, we felt this was the best course of action to take to prevent too many people occupying library spaces at one time. We will continue to roll our virtual programs that can occur via the internet, on Facebook and via dial-in options so that lack of access to computers or internet service are not a barrier to our users.

Some things the library is currently doing to help keep you connected:

• If you need a library card, email support@delcolibraries.org with name, address, phone number, and birthday. You will receive an email with a library card number and receive a physical card in the mail. This will allow you to access digital services right away.
• Library staff will be available from 10am-5pm to answer phone calls and emails.
• You do not need to worry about coming the library to return any materials you have out. No fines will be charged during the period the library is closed.

We are happy to announce our first virtual event, a Facebook Coffee Klatch happening this Wednesday from 10-11:30 am. You can join the conversation at https://www.facebook.com/events/2369388086616976/ "Grab a cup of coffee, log into Facebook, and click on this event to join the chat. We will discuss a wide range of topics including your suggestions. Lets take care of each other and see what our neighbors are up to."

Bookmark this page or sign-up for our e-newsletter to keep up with the library while we are closed.

Stay home & stay safe! We look forward to seeing you soon.
 
Mary Glendening
Library Director