The global spread of COVID-19 is a rapidly-evolving situation. Johnson County Library wants to keep our patrons informed about the virus, as well as preventative measures the Library is taking in response. We also want to document what we have already communicated. Check this page for the updates we have provided in the previous days.
Previous Daily Posts
Updated March 12, 2020
The health and safety of our patrons, volunteers and staff are a top priority. In light of the recent COVID-19 developments, Johnson County Library has made the following determinations about library services. These initiatives are effective at all locations starting Friday, March 13 through Tuesday, March 31.
- All Library-sponsored programs and events are canceled.
- Library Volunteers are instructed not to report for duty.
- All use of public Library Meeting, Conference and Study Rooms is suspended.
- The Friends of Johnson County Library Book Sale at Central Library is canceled.
- Friends Bookstores are closed.
- Book donations will not be accepted.
As always, Johnson County Library offers a wide variety of resources even if you cannot make it to one of the libraries. Our eLibrary is available 24/7 so you can access these resources from wherever you are.
The Library is taking a number of precautionary measures to protect our patrons, volunteers and staff. As we continue to monitor the situation, we will be taking a phased response based on our evaluation of developing data about the current pandemic. We are working with County partners and referencing peer institutions to make the best decisions in support of our patrons, volunteers and staff. Please visit the Johnson County Library website for regular updates about Library services or call 913-826-4600.
Updated March 11, 2020
Johnson County Library administration met today with other Johnson County Government agencies and departments to discuss the evolving response to COVID-19. As of today there is no impact to Library or County services due to the virus, but the Library is taking a number of precautionary measures to protect our patrons, volunteers and staff. These include:
- High-touch areas such as door handles, tabletops, and computer stations cleaned throughout the day by facilities staff
- Extra sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer pumps located throughout Library branches
- Distribution of informational signage for both staff and public areas
- Daily evaluation of upcoming programs and events
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website CDC.gov for the latest guidance on virus prevention. The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment requests all residents:
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow.
- Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, paying special attention to fingernails and between fingers.
- If soap and water is not easily accessible, use hand sanitizer that is 60–90% alcohol-based.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Limit contact such as handshakes or high-fives.
- When possible, practice “social distancing” by remaining three to six feet from other people.
- Stay home if you are not feeling well, especially if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
March 7, 2020
Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed its first presumptive-positive case of COVID-19 in Johnson County on March 7. At the Library, the safety and welfare of our patrons, volunteers and staff is a high priority. The Library’s administration is monitoring the situation and following precautionary recommendations from JCDHE, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Watch the County’s press conference.
Currently, we are not canceling any programs due to COVID-19. This is a developing situation and we will update our website and social channels as we receive new information and guidance from authorities.
Below is a list of websites and library resources assembled by Library staff to help patrons stay informed on the latest news and developments about the virus:
County: The Johnson County Health and Environment has a resource page that includes a FAQ, notices on travel, information about preventing the spread of the virus, and even a “JoCo on the Go” podcast episode by local health experts.
State: The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has a page dedicated to COVID-19, including Frequently Asked Questions, a fact sheet, and guidance for schools, day care facilities, and public health professionals.
Federal: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention provides daily situational reports, a FAQ, and tracks new cases in the United States.
The United States National Library of Medicine, one of the world’s largest medical libraries and part of the National Institutes of Health, tracks clinical studies of the virus and is a rich resource on current scientific writings:
Global: Be sure to visit the World Health Organization, where you can access a daily situation report that tracks the outbreak.
The Johnson County Library also has access to medical databases, accessible with a library card and PIN, including MedLinePlus and Consumer Health Complete, which gives user access to medical journals and magazine articles, in addition to other useful and timely information.