WNPL staff are actively monitoring the outbreak of COVID-19 and will be ready to respond with additional actions recommended by public health officials. We are communicating closely with local authorities to be able to take action quickly. We currently do not plan to limit the library’s hours of service, but we also recognize that the situation may change quickly and require unique responses. Programming schedules may be affected to practice social distancing. Please watch WNPL’s main website and social media for periodic updates.
WNPL’s response includes preparing both staff and the public with resources for accurate and up-to-date information to make appropriate choices to stay safe and healthy.
What WNPL is Doing:
As of 6pm, Friday, March 13, WNPL is closed. This is subject to change due to pandemic conditions. Find out more at this page.
- All outreach activities are currently suspended.
- Please keep and enjoy your materials during this time. All due dates will be extended.
- All book drops, both on WNPL property and remote, will be locked.
- All WNPL programs are canceled through Sun., April 5.
- The Bookmobile is also offroad through Sun., April 5.
- All meeting room and study room reservations are canceled. Study room use will be limited to two persons maximum.
- Social distancing on public computer stations.
- Toys, puzzles, and other materials have been temporarily removed from public spaces.
- Book Ends, the Friends of WNPL used book store, is closed through Sun., April 5. Donations will not be accepted at this time.
- Making additional disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and tissues readily available in multiple places in our building.
- Posting additional information about handwashing guidelines at the doors of our restrooms.
- Additional waste bins for tissues have been added to different areas of the library.
How You Can Help:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cough or sneeze in the crook of your elbow, or a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Stay home if you have any signs of illness, such as cough, fever, shortness of breath, or other flu-like symptoms to help yourself recover, and to protect other community members including WNPL staff
How to Keep Using WNPL if You Decide Not to Visit:
WNPL’s virtual services are available anywhere and anytime with a WNPL card:
- Place holds and renew items
- Borrow books, movies, TV shows, and music from our digital download services
- Use our online resources to research topics, learn a language, get homework help or read publications from around the world
Take additional advantage of these WNPL Services:
- Pickup items placed on hold and checked out to your card via our 24-hour lockers
- Return items to our drive-up book drop or our remote book drop on Dada Drive
Reliable Resources for More Info:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Illinois Department of Health
- Health Department and Community Health Center, Lake County, Illinois
- World Health Organization (WHO)