All Rock Island Public Libraries Closed Through April 4
All Rock Island Public Libraries will close to the public through Saturday, April 4, 2020. This includes Library2Go routes, which will be suspended.
This decision reflects the library’s commitment to work within federal, state, and local health guidelines, and as a prevention strategy to limit the spread of COVID-19 within our community.
At the present time, the library plans to reopen to the public on Monday, April 6.
Closing limits potential exposure to our patrons and staff. Programs and community room use were previously cancelled until Saturday, April 4, 2020.
- As part of this closing. due dates for ALL library materials have been automatically extended until April 7, 2020. Please DO NOT return materials during this time.
- Library book drops will be closed for the duration. Please do not leave materials outside book drops.
- No fines will be accrued during the closure.
- Cards that are expiring in March will be automatically extended through April 30, 2020 so patrons can continue to use the library’s digital content and online learning services.
The Library stated as follows in a release:
Response to COVID-19 is evolving quickly, and we appreciate your patience as we work through the details. Please note that this decision was made with the health and safety of our patrons and staff in mind, and that we take this issue very seriously.
A variety of factors prompted the service change including the declaration of a national emergency, the latest health information available as of today and the safety of the community. We would rather close for the greater good than become an epicenter for transmission and spread.
Though we have taken several steps in the past week to mitigate exposure, the closing of schools, casinos, restaurants and other gathering spots are clear signals that closing for a short time is a prudent step. We would rather react now than risk greater complications later. Closing public libraries helps avoid exposure through social distance and flattens the curve of exposure risk. This protects vulnerable populations, and assists our community and healthcare agencies so they may focus their resources on the greatest need.
Please see below for ways to use your library’s digital services during this closure, and stay healthy and safe.
