Q: How long have you worked for the library?
A: I have been with the library for three years this month.
Q: How has the library traffic been since the start of the COVID pandemic?
A: We have noticed a slow but steady increase in patrons returning to the library physically since we reopened to the public in June. While our buildings were closed to the public during the early months of the pandemic, we were able to continue to help patrons online. We expanded our Wi-Fi availability and hours to try to reach as many patrons as possible. We also offer curbside pickup which has also helped reach more patrons.
Q: What measures has the library taken to ensure the safety of the citizens that utilize services here?
A: When patrons first enter the building from either entrance, they are greeted by a COVID-19 station that offers free disposable face masks and hand sanitizer. The Library is quarantining all returned materials for three days before returning them to circulation. We are practicing social distancing by providing floor markers for patrons to follow when lining up for assistance, limiting the number of available patron computers, installed protective plastic barriers, and limited the capacity of our building and seating. We have also been using UV wands to sanitize frequently touched surfaces such as the patron computers and copy machines and increased the frequency of our cleaning procedures.
Q: Is the library doing any programs/services still?
A: We are not currently doing in-person programming, but we are offering a wide range of programs online! We have moved many of our popular programs to video format that can be watched on our YouTube channel. We are also doing programs utilizing online meeting sites such as Zoom. Check out our website and Facebook for details.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the library?
A: I love interacting with our patrons. I am very lucky to have a job that allows me to help people from all walks of life get the information they need.
Locations and hours of operation
Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County
201 N. Mulberry St.
Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050
(740) 392-BOOK
Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday 1-5 p.m.
Fredericktown Community Library
1 Burgett Drive
Fredericktown, Ohio 43019
(740) 694-BOOK
Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Closed Sunday
Danville Public Library
512 S. Market St.
Danville, Ohio 43014
(740) 599-BOOK
Monday 4-8 p.m.
Tuesday and Wednesday 2-8 p.m.
Friday Noon - 6 p.m.
Closed Thursday and Sunday
Gambier Community Library
115 Meadow Lane
Gambier, Ohio 43022
(740) 427-BOOK
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
