Heights Libraries To Remain Open Amid COVID-19 Fears

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — A Cleveland Heights and University Heights institution will remain open amid growing concern over the new coronavirus, COVID-19. The Heights Libraries said they would continue to welcome the public in coming weeks.

"We clean our surfaces daily, provide hand sanitizer and wipes to customers in all buildings, and have bleach wipes available in all departments. We have also removed all toys from our Early Literacy play areas in all branches to keep little ones safe," the library system said in a statement issued this week.

Library leaders said the situation is fluid and could change. If buildings are going to be closed, or programs canceled, the library system will utilize social media, eblasts and the Heights Libraries website to inform guests.

"We have no plans to close any buildings or cancel any events at this time, but we are closely monitoring information from the CDC and our local health agencies. Closing a building is not something we would do lightly, as many vulnerable people depend on public libraries," a library system spokesperson told Patch.

Elderly visitors, and visitors with compromised immune systems, are being advised to take advantage of the library system's digital collection, or home delivery of books. The library system also offers access to the reference desk by phone at 216-932-3600.

The library system has launched a website to keep guests up-to-date on how COVID-19 is impacting branches.

The Cleveland Heights Community Center has been closed to the public and three polling locations in the city will be moved out of senior living homes to protect elderly residents.

There are now four confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ohio, health officials announced on Wednesday afternoon. All four cases are in Northeast Ohio — with three infect persons in Cuyahoga County and one infected person in Stark County.

The state is waiting on COVID-19 test results for 24 people, according to the Ohio Department of Health.