Posted: Mar 17, 2020, 4:14 PM
All Bossier Parish library locations will be closed effective Wednesday, March 18 and will remain closed until further notice. The library Board of Control voted to issue the notice of closure.
“In our hearts, we want to remain open for our community’s needs,” said Heather McEntee, Director of Libraries for Bossier Parish Libraries, ‘but we can’t risk the health of our community and staff.”
In a March 17 press release, the executive board for the American Library Association said that, “Keeping libraries open at this time has the potential to harm communities more than help.”
During this closure, patrons are encouraged to utilize the library’s online resources. With a library card and internet access, users can download eBooks, listen to audiobooks, stream movies, read the latest magazines, learn a new language, brush up on photography skills, work on craft projects, and much more.
Online tutorials are available for instruction on how to use these resources. Additionally, during this time, Bossier Parish Libraries will offer online card renewals and the option to receive an e-card to access these online resources.
“Based on the recommendations of the American Library Association, as well as local, state, and national health officials, we have decided to close to the public so that we can do our part to minimize the impact of this virus in our local community,” McEntee said.
“We have enacted emergency protocols and library staff will be on paid emergency leave as they are home with their families during this global crisis,” she added.
Bossier Parish Libraries administrators will closely monitor the news regarding COVID-19 and make a determination regarding reopening as the situation continues to develop.