Public libraries in Hendricks County close to prevent coronavirus
Lindsay Doty
Public libraries across Hendricks County have closed to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. With book sharing and surfaces, library leaders saw it as the right move but are reminding patrons they can use electronic services.
Brownsburg Public Library leaders made the decision on Monday with hopes of reopening to the public on April 6.
“This was a painful decision for us as we know that many of you rely on us on a daily basis to access resources and information. However, we felt compelled to do our part to help stem the tide of this pandemic in our community,” said Denise Robinson, director of the Brownsburg Public Library.
“Closing will offer greater benefit to the social distancing effort to limit the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus,” said Robinson.
The Brownsburg Public Library will continue to assess the situation to determine if a longer closure is necessary. If you have a book due, you can still drop it in the outdoor book return.
The Avon-Washington Township Public Library also closed on Monday, March 16. Library leaders posted a notice on Facebook telling patrons the public library will be closed as a precaution to protect staff and patrons from the virus.
“With library services being vital to so many individuals, it was a difficult decision to close to the public,” said Avon-Washington Township Public Library Community Relations Manager Catherine Myers.
“It is our top priority to ensure the safety of all patrons and staff.”
The library plans to re-open April 6. Fines on overdue books will be suspended. Electronic services are still available.
The Danville Center Township Public Library did the same. Due dates have been extended for materials checked out as of March 16. The library staff will be updating the public through its website and social media pages about reopening dates.
The Plainfield-Guilford Public Library closed on Friday, March 13 to follow state and federal health recommendations. The library staff requests that patrons do not return items at this time.
Clayton Liberty Township Public Library in Clayton is also closed until further notice. The library’s ebooks are still up and running.
