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Library Status Update - May 13

Yesterday, Mayor Cantrell announced plans for Orleans Parish to enter Phase One: Safest At Home, beginning Saturday, May 16. This phase allows for the reopening of some low-risk operations, including libraries, with limits on occupancy, implementing social distancing measures, and requirements for personal protective equipment for employees and customers.

What does it mean that libraries are part of Phase One?

Even though libraries are included in Phase One, and as much as we are looking forward to resuming operations as soon as possible, the safety of Library users and staff will determine our process, so our Libraries will not immediately reopen to the public.

If the Library isn't opening immediatley, what's happening?

We are working on plans that incorporate the Phase One requirements. Since March 16, 92% of our staff have been on Civil Leave, meaning we have been unable to fully communicate and plan together, as a library system. All Library staff will return to work on Monday, May 18, and we will carefully and collectively develop and finalize plans for bringing back library services in a way that is as safe and makes as much sense as possible for everyone.

What can I do until library services resume?Continue to utilize our e-Resources. Did you know you can access free streaming movies, online homework help, e-Books and audiobooks, virtual storytimes, genealogy resources, downloadable music, online language learning, magazines and newspapers, and so much more from any place at any time?

What's next?

As plans are finalized, we will send out updated information via email, on our website at nolalibrary.org, and through our social media channels. Please continue to hold on to any checked out items. All due dates and late fines are suspended while we are closed.

THANK YOU

We are so appreciative for the many messages of support and encouragement we've received during this difficult time for all of us. We can't wait to see you at the Library very soon.

Need help? Ask a Librarian.

Our doors may be closed but we are still able to assist you. If you are having trouble with your library account, need help with an e-Resource, or would simply like a reading recommendation, please contact us, we are ready to help.

To speak with a Librarian, call 504-383-4682 Mondays through Thursdays from 9am - 7pm or Fridays from 9am - 5pm or visit ask.nolalibrary.org to submit a request online.

As a Reminder:

Please keep all checked out materials until we reopen.
All due dates and late fees are suspended during the closure.
All drop boxes are locked and unavailable during the closure.

Current information related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) is on NOLA Ready's Coronavirus Webpage.

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