A Message from AZLA President, Corey Christians

As devoted public servants, library staff always want to be there for our patrons in a crisis. Libraries across Arizona are finding innovative ways to serve, while protecting both staff and patrons from spreading the COVID-19 virus. The last thing we want to do is close our doors, but if temporary closures will be of greater benefit to public health, that is what we must do. The ALA is recommending library closures at this time to minimize the spread of the virus and to protect patrons and staff from getting sick. If your local officials determine the best course of action is to close your library, I encourage you to continue working to provide resources and value to your communities in ways that allow library staff to remain safe and continue working. Here are some innovative ways Arizona libraries are maintaining service in the midst of this pandemic:

· Offering additional online resources

· Providing curbside or drive-thru pickup of materials

· Extending circulation and hold times

· Online and telephonic reference services

· Virtual events such as virtual story times

· The provision of online library cards

If you are a library administrator please consider some of these options to maintain a library presence for your community during this difficult time, and share the great ideas you come up with. AZLA is here to provide support and encouragement to Arizona’s library community. Be well everyone.

Regards,

Corey Christians

For more information about ALA resources on COVID-19, visit www.ala.org/tools/atoz/pandemic-preparedness.

Corey Christians

AzLA President

1-928-830-5996

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