The Kingston Frontenac Public Library has been closely monitoring the developments related to COVID-19. This is a constantly evolving situation and an extraordinary time around the world. In consultation with the Library Board, I have made the decision to temporarily close all library branches from Monday, March 16 through Sunday, April 5.

This was not a decision that was made lightly. I know many people in our community rely on the services we provide. Library staff will be contacting meal programs and social service agencies in our area and we will do our best to develop an updated list of programs that are still operating. As of Sunday afternoon on March 15, we have been informed that the In from the Cold Shelter at 540 Montreal Street and Kingston Warming and Counselling Warming Centre at 235 Wellington Street are still operating as usual.

Planning for library staff redeployment is underway. Staff will continue to be paid for their regularly scheduled hours during the closure.

If you have materials currently on loan, we would prefer that you keep them until we re-open. Our exterior item returns remain available at this time. Due dates have been extended until April 14th and no new fines will be charged during this closure.

KFPL provides incredible resources you can use while you are at home. We encourage you to use our digital resources such as eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming movies, eMagazines and online classes. If you live in Kingston or Frontenac County and don’t have a library card, please send us an email and we will get you registered so that you may access resources while we are closed.

Any additional information will be posted on our website as well as Facebook and Twitter.

Please know that the risk in Kingston and Frontenac County remains low. I recommend you keep informed with reliable information. The provincial government has introduced a self-assessment tool to help you determine whether you should be tested for COVID-19. It’s online here.

Thank you for your support, understanding and patience during this difficult time as we work together to ensure the well-being of everyone in Kingston and Frontenac County and to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Sincerely,

Laura Carter

Chief Librarian/CEO, Kingston Frontenac Public Library

 

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