» Lake County libraries close,

Amid the novel coronavirus pandemic, many public libraries across Ohio will be closed effective immediately.

Among those in Lake County, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library have closed all library locations — Eastlake, Willoughby, Willoughby Hills, Willowick and the administrative offices.

The libraries are working with local health and municipal officials and following guidance and direction from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Ohio Department of Health, according to a news release.

For the duration of the closure, due dates for checked-out materials, including wi-fi hot spots and tablets, and holds for materials will be extended to the time that the library reopens, the release stated.

Many Lake County libraries have also waived their late fees to help during this period and will be offering curbside pick-up and drop-off.

Even though the libraries will be closed, many digital resources can be accessed from home. All of these library’s digital resources will remain available during the closure, including ebooks, audiobooks, streaming music, streaming video, digital editions of magazines,and online tutorials.

Along with WilloughbyEastlake, Mentor Public Library, Morley Library in Painesville, and Fairport Harbor Public Library have also closed effective immediately.

All programs, services, outreach activities, and meeting room reservations have been canceled for them as well.

At this time, the majority of the libraries in Lake County are set to re-open for regular service by April 6. However, the period is subject to revision based on developments in public health and recommendations or directives from local, state, or federal officials.

For more information, patrons can visit their local library branch website for the most up-to-date information.

ALEXIS OATMAN — THE NEWS-HERALD Mentor Public Library has posted signs outside itsr branches amid virus