A Message from our Director about COVID-19 and the Library

We understand and take very seriously concerns about the COVID-19 coronavirus and are prioritizing community health and safety while continuing to provide for your public library service needs. We are following the County’s lead in its response to the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. Henrico County has created an online resource with information about the coronavirus, including the number for the Virginia Department of Health call center, and other helpful links. You can access that resource here. It will be updated regularly.



At this time, HCPL libraries are following best practices for cleaning our facilities, which includes increased daily cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and workspaces, as well as placing additional hand sanitizer and sanitizer wipes in public areas of our libraries. We have placed signs about proper handwashing hygiene and COVID-19 in public areas and restrooms, and we have removed non-essential items like toys and puzzles, which are more difficult to clean, from our children’s areas. Our All Henrico Reads author event on April 2 will be postponed, and we plan to reschedule for a later date. Other library programs may be canceled or postponed.



If you are concerned about or if you are at high-risk for complications due to coronavirus, or if you are experiencing illness or symptoms related to coronavirus, we encourage you to stay home and access library resources remotely. You can borrow materials online from the library through OverDrive, for books and audiobooks, and Hoopla, for books, audiobooks, music, and movies. Hoopla has no waiting period for borrowing. You can get digital access to magazines online with your library card through RB Digital, and newspapers through our Online Research page. If you have a question for a librarian, you can use our online Ask A Librarian service on our website, or call your library to get assistance over the phone. Our My Next Read service can help you get book recommendations via email directly from library staff.



Thank you for your support of the Henrico County Public Library, our County, and community. Henrico County and HCPL will continue to communicate with you through our website and social media channels.



Sincerely,

Barbara F. Weedman

Director