Starting today, the King County Library System (KCLS) is advancing to Phase 1.5 in its own multiphase plan to reopen libraries after a three-month closure to help curtail the spread of COVID-19, according to a news release.<\/p>\n
Gov. Jay Inslee approved King County’s request to move into a modified Phase 1 of Washington state’s Safe Start plan last week. The county is currently in Phase 1.5 of the state’s four phases.<\/p>\n
Serving communities in King County outside the City of Seattle, KCLS currently has 50 libraries and more than 700,000 cardholders.<\/p>\n
Based on data-driven guidance for materials handling, cleaning and physical distancing, KCLS is taking a phased approach to allow staff and community members to return to libraries in a deliberate and planned way.<\/p>\n
“We are delighted to move into the next phase, which brings us one step closer to offering Curbside To Go services in Phase 2,” said KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum. “We know our patrons have missed having access to our full collection, and we look forward to the day we can offer physical materials again.”<\/p>\n
Phase and sub-phase progressions are subject to change as they depend on current public health and safety guidelines, the release said. KCLS’ Path to Reopening is outlined as follows:<\/p>\n
PHASE 1:<\/strong> All libraries are closed to the public; no book returns are allowed.<\/p>\n PHASE 1.5:<\/strong> All libraries remain closed to the public.<\/p>\n PHASE 2:<\/strong> All libraries remain closed to the public.<\/p>\n PHASE 3:<\/strong> Some or all libraries are open to the public with modified operations<\/p>\n PHASE 4:<\/strong> All libraries are open to the public; full-service operations resume<\/p>\n Online service and resources are available (and encouraged) while KCLS’ physical buildings remain closed. Residents in the KCLS service area (in King County, outside the city of Seattle) can sign up instantly for a digital eCard to access the library online.<\/p>\n\n
\n
\n
\n
\n