The health of our staff and customers is a key priority as we work to limit the spread of COVID-19. As you are aware, the Edmonton Public Library (EPL) has taken several steps to mitigate the risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impact.
On Wednesday, March 12, Alberta Health Services recommended organizers cancel all large gatherings in the province.
After consultations with the City of Edmonton and Alberta Health Services, EPL classes, events, and meeting room bookings are suspended effective immediately until further notice. This also includes outreach visits to daycares, schools, seniors’ homes and other partner organizations. EPL is taking these measures to encourage physical distancing and in consideration of those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19.
The Library has increased the intensity of custodial services in public and staff areas, and will increase the frequency as well. We are expanding the availability of hand sanitization stations as well as disinfecting wipes in addition to protective gloves which will be distributed to branches in the coming days.
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, we encourage everyone to follow recommended hygiene practices, such as washing your hands frequently, coughing into a tissue or your elbow, and to avoid touching your face. We continue to ask staff and members of the public to refrain from visiting EPL if they have recently traveled to / from or been in close contract with someone who has traveled to / from any country outside of Canada, or if they have been in close contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19. If you are feeling unwell, please stay home and take care of yourself.
We will continue to closely monitor this situation as it evolves. We recommend you keep informed with reliable sources. If you believe that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please call Health Link 811.
If you are unable to visit your local branch, explore our digital resources where you can stream music and movies, take an online course, check out an audiobook or eBook, browse magazines and much more.
We thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this time.
Pilar Martinez
Chief Executive Officer
Edmonton Public Library
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