Metuchen Public Library

The Metuchen Public Library has established the following protocols to be used in the event of a public health emergency. The protocols set forth by local, county, state, and federal governments are provided to protect the health and safety of the general public and the library staff.

• During a public health emergency, the following service implementations or changes may be applied:
  Library buildings may be closed and public access and hours may be limited or suspended
• Virtual programming, digital resources, and online access and services would be offered (as available) in situations where library access is limited
• Due dates and library card memberships may be extended or adjusted
• Fines and fees may be adjusted or waived

Reasonable safety practices and procedures will be implemented to ensure a safe environment for library staff and the public. These practice requirements may include, but are not limited to:

• A face mask or facial covering of the nose and mouth
  – Patrons who are unwilling or unable to wear a mask or facial covering of the nose and mouth will not be permitted inside the library and may receive assistance via telephone, online digital resources, or curbside pick-up.
• Social distance maintenance of at least 6 feet of physical distance inside and on library premises
• Self-monitoring of one’s own health. If there are any symptoms of illness such as cough, shortness of breath, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell, and a temperature greater than or equal to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, patrons should not come to the library.
• Frequent hand-washing and appropriate use of hand sanitizing products.
• Adherence to library public hours for services and appointments
• Other procedures and requirements as posted by the library
• Additional recommendations or requirements as posted by governmental agencies, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health (PEOSH)

  The Library reserves the right to suspend library privileges during a public emergency for patrons who fail to comply with required procedures. Uncooperative behavior towards library staff when enforcing public health emergency guidelines will not be tolerated.
  This policy will automatically be in effect when a public health emergency is declared at the local, county, state, or national level.

  1st Reading 9/8/2020
  2nd Reading and Adopted 10/13/2020