Some libraries, churches closed until further notice
Staff writer
Two community libraries have closed amid COVID-19 concerns and a third will remain open until further notice.
Some community churches have also postponed or are deciding whether to postpone services.
Marion City Library director Janet Marler said the library is closed.
“The decision to close was not made lightly, but the health of patrons and staff is the most important thing to us,” Marler said. “In light of recent COVID-19 developments, the Marion City Library board members have made the decision to temporarily close the library to the public.”
The book drop will remain open, but people are asked not to return items if they have been sick. Due dates are being extended and fines waived.
Events at the library have been postponed. There will be no Friday morning storytimes, the annual quilt show scheduled for March 23 to April 4, and the “Fly Girls” community book discussion will be rescheduled later.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and may make other decisions or changes as needed,” Marler said.
Library patrons are encouraged to check its website for updates.
Staff will not be working during the closure.
Hillsboro Library director Jeanie Bartel said that library is also closed until further notice. Staff will be available by phone from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to renew books, and answer questions about the library, and to help set up new e-library accounts. Borrowers can return books through the slot on the east side of the building or a box in the hallway next to the door.
Free Wi-Fi is available at the front of the building and in the hallway. The password is posted in the window.
An announcement will be made when the library is going to open. Updates will be posted on the library’s website.
Librarians can be reached by phone at (620) 947-3827.
Librarian Rodger Charles said Peabody Township Library will stay open for now.
“We’re going to employ as much common sense as we can,” Charles said. “We are at this time going to stay open. We have an ample supply of Lysol disinfecting wipes. We’re going to wipe things down as they come in and wipe tables and chairs down as we go along.”
Charles said the library rarely has 10 people inside at the same time.
North Central Kansas Library System sent an e-mail to libraries with deep cleaning protocols, Charles said.
In Marion, Eastmoor United Methodist Church announced services have been suspended for two weeks. The church will later announce whether services will resume or remain postponed.
Other churches in the county are contemplating whether to postpone services.
Libraries and schools are exempted from a governor’s executive order issued Tuesday that prohibits mass gatherings of 50 or more people.
Physician Don Hodson said Marion County Health Department will recommend church postponement.