Friday, March 16, 2020:

Dear Patrons,

As of today, all town offices, including the library, are closed to the public. We do not charge late fees, but due dates have been extended and all requests have been suspended until we reopen. We encourage you to check this page and follow us on social media for the latest updates.

Sincerely,
Patty DiTullio, Library Director

Questions? Please do not hesitate to contact me at pditullio@ipswichlibrary.org or 978-356-6649.

 

Friday, March 13, 2020:

Dear Patrons,

After consultation with town administration and under guidance from public health officials, the Ipswich Library has made the difficult, but necessary, decision to close the library to the public beginning Friday, March 13, 2020 at 5pm, until further notice. Please visit our website frequently and follow us on social media for updates about reopening dates, and services available by phone/email during the closure.

We understand, and deeply regret, the inconvenience this will cause our loyal patrons. Our entire community’s health and wellness are our top priority. Ipswich Public Library offers many amazing resources that are available 24/7 available through our website.

We thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we face this health emergency together.

 

Thursday, March 12, 2020:

Dear Patrons,

We know the current health emergency is causing anxiety across our community. The Town and the Library are sensitive to that, and want to apprise you of the steps we are taking to address the situation.

The Ipswich Public Library is working closely with the Ipswich Public Health Department and other Town Departments to monitor the latest information and guidelines provided by the by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) related to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The Library’s highest priority is the health and well-being of library users, staff and volunteers. To help ensure that our library is safe and welcoming to all, we have implemented a strategy that aims to prevent and slow the spread of the virus. At present, there is no change in our hours. However, we are taking the following precautions:

• In response to the latest recommendations by emergency management and health professionals, we are canceling all library programs until further notice.
• We are also closing our public meeting rooms to outside use until further notice, and will be in touch with those scheduled to use these spaces.
• Out of an abundance of caution, we are removing toys and puzzles from our public areas. We will re-introduce these popular items as soon as we feel it is safe to do so.

Things are changing quickly and the library will continue to work closely with the Town Administration and Public Health Director to determine if other actions are warranted. Please check the library website and social media for frequent updates.

 

For the most current information about the pandemic, the library recommends the following resources:

From the Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Information on the Outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019
Includes information about COVID-19, preparation in Massachusetts, prevention, testing, and treatment, travel information, guidance and recommendations, frequently asked questions, and fact sheets. The guidance documents include recommendations for good hygiene and regular cleaning that may also be helpful.

COVID-19 Cases, Quarantine and Monitoring (Mass DPH)
Information about COVID-19 cases and residents subject to quarantine in Massachusetts

Overviews

Share Facts ABOUT COVID-19 (CDC)
Know the facts about coronavirus disease 2019 and help stop the rumors

Coronavirus Advice for the Public (World Health Organization)
Basic protective measures against the new coronavirus

Coronavirus Infections (MedlinePlus)
Includes a summary of coronavirus, how it spreads, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention