Mendon Public Library Response to COVID-19

[Chris Carosa]

The staff of the Mendon Public Library is working behind the scenes to make sure library services continue in some form for all our patrons. We understand that library service is now more important than ever and we hope our patrons know that we are thankful for their patience as we adjust to new protocols and procedures.

Safety
At this point, our primary concern is the safety of our community. Working remotely, the Mendon Public Library staff is trying to offer as much service as we can to the public. We are working with the Monroe County Library System (MCLS) to give you as much online content as possible. In addition, we continue to offer free WiFi on our grounds. Some larger libraries are offering limited services. We expect to rely on only MCLS shared services for at least a few weeks, and, quite possibly, the duration of the emergency.

Materials
We are following MCLS guidelines to quarantine books for 72 hours before handling. As such, until we have a system and equipment in place to ensure that we’re meeting all safety protocols regarding the handling of materials, our book drops will remain closed. Furthermore, as much as we would like to, we are not going to put out a give and take bookrack. Many people are cleaning and probably have lots of wonderful donations to give us. Please hold your donations, do not put donations outside the library. To keep our community safe, we will not be bringing donations into the building.

Procedures
Current materials on loan will now be due on May 18, 2020. Rest assured you may retain the materials in your possession without fines. Please keep all materials borrowed until notified otherwise. In addition, note that physical hold expiration dates have been extended until further notice. When libraries reopen, holds will be filled in order for each library location. Finally, library user accounts with outstanding fines and fees (above $35.00) that would normally be referred to collections, will not be referred at this time.

Questions
We are attempting to update our webpage (mendonlibrary.org) and social media sites frequently. However, if you need assistance, feel free to email your question to: (mendonlibrarycirculation@libraryweb.org). We will attempt to help if:
· Your library card expired and will not work on MCLS online services;
· You have fines on your card which prevent you from using MCLS online services;
· You are a student/guardian of HFL student and want free access to MCLS online resources (this includes all areas outside of Monroe County);
· You are a regular patron of the MPL and would like free online access to MCLS online resources.

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