Bluffton Public Library remains open and is operating under its noraml schedules, according to Jessica Hermiller, library administrator.
"The health and safety of our customers and staff is a top priority," she said.
"Currently our location is open and operating under normal schedules. Please continue checking the library’s website or social media for updated information."
She continues:
"We're working with local health officials and following directions from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).
"The library continues to take additional steps beyond regular practices and cleaning and sanitizing the library as much as possible.
"All toys have been removed from the children's area to be disinfected and stored until further notice. Hand sanitizer, tissues and wipes are available for use at the front desk.
"In order to provide the best possible service to our community, the Bluffton Public Library is cancelling all library programming until April 5 at this time.
"Use of the library's study room is limited to 1 person, and the local history room to 2 people at a time. Seating and computers have been placed out of services to allow for social distancing.
"Everyone has a role to play in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and staying healthy. Please stay home and do not visit the library if you are exhibiting signs of the flu or if you are not feeling well.
"We invite you to explore everything we have to offer on our website. You can download eBooks and audiobooks on Overdrive and Libby. If you have questions, please call the library at 419-358-5016.
To stay healthy, the CDC and other health agencies recommend:
Washing your hands frequently. Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home and away from others if you are sick.
- Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces frequently.
- Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
Trusted Information Sources
Sharing accurate information from trusted sources is critical to reduce misinformation. Find reliable and current information about the outbreak from local and national agencies below.
Ohio Department of Health
The Ohio Department of Health maintains a website with the up-to-date information on the outbreak, current risk to the public, and links to helpful resources.
https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/
https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/Novel-Coronavirus
ODH has also set up a call center to address questions regarding COVID-19. It is open seven days a week from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and can be reached at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).
Allen County Public Health
https://www.allencountypublichealth.org/
Centers for Disease Control
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has set up a website with a range of information about the current risk to the public, symptoms to watch for, prevention, testing, and advice for schools, communities and businesses.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Library Resources for Coronavirus Information
https://www.infodocket.com/2020/01/31/2019-novel-coronavirus-resources/
Coping With Stress and Anxiety
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html?
CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fcoping.html
https://store.samhsa.gov/system/files/sma14-4885.pdf
https://store.samhsa.gov/system/files/sma14-4894.pdf
Resources for Parents & Families
https://www.cdc.gov/childrenindisasters/helping-children-cope.html
https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/readywrigley/documents/RW_Coping_After_a_Disaster_508.pdf
Resources for First Responders
https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/responders.asp
https://www.samhsa.gov/dtac/disaster-responders
"The situation with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is evolving daily. We will keep you informed of any changes to our services. For the latest information, please check our website at www.blufftonpubliclibrary.org," said Hermiller.
