All Somerset County Libraries To Close As NJ Coronavirus Spreads

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — All libraries in the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey will close on Monday through Sunday, March 22 to protect the safety of customers and staff as the new coronavirus spreads.

"This may seem like an ominous step, but really, to quote Twitter user Matt Pierce, 'it's an act of social solidarity. We're sacrificing so we can give nurses, doctors and hospitals a chance' by minimizing opportunities for the continued spread of the virus," Brian Auger, county library administrator said.

The closure is temporary for the time during which there is potential risk of community transmission of COVID-19.

New Jersey Coronavirus Updates: Don't miss local and statewide announcements about novel coronavirus precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

Some library services will still be available to users to customers digitally including:

• Read anywhere by exploring Overdrive e-books and e-audiobooks.
• Watch videos and have fun being creative with Creativebug.
• Flip through your favorite magazines with Flipster digital magazines.
• Learn a new language with Mango Languages.
• Lose yourself in love with RomanceBookCloud.
• Exercise your brain with BrainHQ.
• Learn a new skill with Lynda.com.
• Make your dream a reality and work on your new business plan with Gale Small Business Builder.
• Travel to a new place, while being safe in your home, with National Geographic.

For more digital resources visit sclsnj.org/besafeathome.

Any questions or concerns about these temporary changes should be directed to Auger via email at bauger@sclibnj.org or phone 908-458-8401.

SCLSNJ branches can be found in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Rocky Hill at Mary Jacobs Memorial Library, Somerville, Warren Township, and Watchung. Additionally, there are two SCLSNJ reading stations in Branchburg and Washington Valley. For more information visit SCLSNJ.org.

Developments in the new coronavirus outbreak continue to unfold rapidly in New Jersey now that the number of cases has risen to 50, and one person has died. (See Related: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know)

On Thursday, the first Somerset County case was announced in Bridgewater. (See Related: Bridgewater Man Could Be 1st Somerset County Coronavirus Case)

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.