For immediate release:
EDMONTON, AB, March 13, 2020 — The Edmonton Public Library (EPL) is following recommendations from Alberta Health Services to cancel all large gatherings as a precaution to help limit the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
After consultations with the City of Edmonton and Alberta Health Services, EPL classes, events, and meeting room bookings are suspended effectively immediately until further notice. This also includes outreach visits to daycares, schools, seniors’ homes and other partner organizations. Volunteer-led programs and placements have also been suspended. EPL is taking these measures to encourage social distancing and in consideration of those who are most vulnerable to COVID-19.
“Top of mind for all of us right now is the COVID-19 virus,” said Pilar Martinez, Chief Executive Officer of the Edmonton Public Library. “EPL is focused on the health and safety of our staff, customers and community partners. Due to the recent confirmed cases of COVID-19 and in consultation with the City of Edmonton and Alberta Health Services, we have decided to suspend all classes and events until further notice.”
Any information regarding further changes to library services will be shared at epl.ca.
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.
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About the Edmonton Public Library
The Edmonton Public Library (EPL) is proud to be 2014 Library of the Year! We’ve come a long way since 1913 when books were all you could find on our shelves… and we’re just getting started! Today, EPL carries everything you care about. We are Edmonton’s largest lender of all manner of information and entertainment. Our professionally trained staff take you beyond Google with the knowledge, discernment and desire to help you navigate a universe of information. The second most visited place in Edmonton, every year EPL hosts over 15.4 million in branch and online visits across our 21 branches and website. We deliver our incredible content to you everywhere – in the library, at home or on your handheld device. Unmatched access and unrivalled value – that is today’s EPL. EPL is a registered charity and relies on donations to enhance services. Spread the words. www.epl.ca/give
For more information contact:
Marina Afonso, Communications Specialist, Edmonton Public Library
Marina.afonso@epl.ca
P: 780.442.5019 | C: 780.819.4337
