The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Library stays connected despite closures
Public libraries are among the institutions temporarily closed to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Public libraries are among the institutions temporarily closed to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus.
While this measure is one of public safety it comes at the cost of restricting a means of acquiring information and resources for a wide range of individuals.
Wickliffe Public Library is among those who have made efforts since the closures to provide links and resources for people to access information through their website.
Through Aug. 31, the library has partnered with Tumblebooks, which serves as an electronic repository for books and information geared primarily toward students, to provide access to its database of materials. Tumblebooks links can be found on the library’s website. Usage does not require check-outs or downloads.
Other online databases are also featured on their website including OverDrive, Lynda.com, and Libby. Newspaper Archive, which boasts a 300-million page newspaper collection will also be available for free usage during the closures.
While these resources are free of charge, some may require a Clevnet library card. Specific details can be found on the library’s website.
Library closures have affected many, but Ancillary Services Coordinator Lisa Sherlock feels the burden has been magnified upon students who depend on libraries for digital access and the elderly population who may be technologically averse.
“Our senior population who are digitally challenged, they don’t know how to use digital resources,” Sherlock said. “They want that physical book or CD or DVD. I can speak for my own experience, I have parents in assisted living. They are digitally challenged. I can’t even go and take books to them like I was.”
Wickliffe Library had several in-person events that were also suspended or cancelled as a result. To counteract this, several events have been modified and broadcast over the internet.
“We’re sharing our virtual Tales for a Dog where our dog owners with reading therapy dogs are on our Facebook page,” she said. “We’re sharing art classes and craft that they can do at home. We’re trying to post at least once a day to maintain that contact with our patrons and give them information and ways to access different things.”
Looking ahead, Sherlock is eager to kick off the summer reading program but is cognizant that ongoing COVID-19 concerns may force them to restructure their approach as the season draws nearer.