Coronavirus: New Pierce Co. Library Policies Address Concerns

PIERCE COUNTY, WA — In an effort to protect the health of its workers and patrons during the coronavirus crisis, the Pierce County Library System announced changes that will include the cancellation of classes, events, story times and author visits — while bearing in mind the upside of reading for stress reduction.

“We know this is a stressful time for all of us, and we know reading has been proven to help reduce stress,” said Pierce County Library System Executive Director Georgia Lomax. “The library will help people with their reading choices and stress reduction during this anxious time and serious health crisis. We are committed to safe and welcoming libraries for the public’s use and a safe work place for staff.”

The countywide network announced that it is:

• Canceling through April 30 such classes and events as story times, author visits, computer classes and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) events.
• Postponing Pierce County READS, a program that was to feature best-selling author Amy Stewart March 28. The event will be rescheduled for the fall, officials said.
• Canceling meetings in public meeting rooms.
• Closing conference rooms to the public.
• Asking staff and the public to keep a four- to six-foot distance from others while at library locations.

As for managing needs of the thousands of individuals who visit the network's 20 libraries nearly every day, officials are exploring options for changes, including possible alternates to offer classes and events.

Locals are encouraged to check out from home e-books, audiobooks and magazines online.

Also, such online resources, as Homework Help, with online, real-time tutors to help students who may be studying remotely, or HeritageQuest, for those researching ancestry while stuck at home, may be good tools and help with "social distancing."

The library system plans to remain open, unless new advisories are issued through the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department, public officials or agencies, staff said.

For additional information from the library system, follow this link.

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