Out of an abundance of care for its staff and patrons and in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Cleveland Public Library will close to the public at the end of the day, Friday, March 13 until further notice. All programs, services, outreach activities, and meeting room reservations have been cancelled.
The Library will continue to provide brown bag meals to children Monday through Friday from 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Main Library and our 27 neighborhood branches.
Voters can still utilize the designated branches as polling locations for the presidential primary on Tuesday, March 17.
“This was a difficult decision for the staff at Cleveland Public Library. We know how much our community depends on us. We hope our closure will keep our employees and patrons safe and healthy and reduce exposure to this disease,” said Felton Thomas, Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library. “We are strongly encouraging patrons to utilize our online services. Patrons with materials already checked out should keep them until further notice.”
Our digital and streaming services include e-books, audiobooks, movies, and music for Patrons to access.
Cleveland Public Library has compiled a list of resources and materials to help students maintain their reading skills and prepare for state assessment tests while schools are closed.
During the Library’s closure, our Property Management Department will deep clean and sanitize the Main Library, Louis Stokes Wing, and our branches.
Cleveland Public Library is asking everyone to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus by following the preventive measures outlined by the CDC:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
For more information on the Coronavirus, visit cpl.org, the Cleveland Department of Public Health or the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, or the State of Ohio Department of Health website or by calling 833-4-ASK-ODH.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has helpful fact sheets that outline What You Need to Know about Coronavirus and What to Do If You Are Sick.