Staying Safe Together – COVID-19 Response and Updates

As tests become available, the State of Ohio is sending them to local health departments and libraries that have opted-in to receiving and distributing tests. We make tests available as soon as they are received and cannot guarantee when future shipments may arrive.

You may receive proctored tests or un-proctored/over-the-counter (OTC) tests. As a reminder OTC tests:

1. Do not require a telehealth session; they are conducted at home and are for personal use.
2. Unless proctored by a CLIA-waived entity, do not produce a documented result that can be used for travel, to return or stay in school, or be released from quarantine in Ohio.
3. We are limiting tests to one box of two tests per household.

In addition to local test kit distribution, every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-⁠19 tests by mail. The tests are completely free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days. Order your tests now, so you have them when you need them. Visit www.covidtests.gov to place your order.

Are customers required to wear masks?

All customers are strongly encouraged to wear masks to protect themselves and others. Single-use masks are available at our service desks.

For customers who are unable to visit in person, we continue to offer many service options that make library use possible:

• Visit the Library’s website at akronlibrary.org to access our online collection, research tools, and learning resources.
• Take part in our new services, Your Next 5 Reads and Same-Day Select, for personalized materials selection.
• Retrieve your requested items using our Outside Pick-Up Service.
• Call or e-mail your local Library location for reference services. We’re ready to answer your questions. Detailed, one-on-one personalized reference assistance is available through Book A Librarian.
• Ask us about document delivery by fax, e-mail, or Outside Pick-Up Service, and learn how you can print documents from your device for pick-up at the Library.
• Remember—free Wi-Fi is available outside Library buildings.
• Find out if you qualify for our Library Express Delivery Service (LEDS). Call 330-643-9060.

Are COVID-related safety measures still in place at the Library?

In every location, you will see:

• Service desk shields
• Physical distancing reminders
• Hand sanitizer
• Plexiglas shields at some public-use tables
• Plexiglas shields at some public-use computers
• Regularly scheduled sanitizing activity

Is Outside Pick-Up Service available?

Yes. The Library offers Outside Pick-Up Service appointments for holds at all locations, including Main Library. Appointments are not needed for items held at Main Library’s Drive-up Window. Outside Pick-Up appointments should only be scheduled after you have been notified that your holds are ready for pick-up. Document delivery, items sent from your device to a Library printer, is also available via Outside Pick-Up Service.

Can I apply for a library card online?

Yes. Adults can apply for a card online and start using the Library’s digital resources almost immediately.

Are returned items quarantined?

The Library no longer quarantines items. The most recent public health information confirms that we no longer need to be concerned about virus transmission via returned materials.

When will in-person events resume?

In-person events resumed in June. Virtual events will also continue. View our online calendar for information.

When will meeting room reservations resume?

Meeting room reservations resumed on July 6. Library cardholders can continue to set up and run their own virtual meeting room with Zoom and support from Library staff.

Are public computers and Wi-Fi available?

Yes.

Are you accepting book donations?

Yes, although some Library locations may not currently have available storage space. Please check with your local library before making your donation.

Where can I find reliable information about COVID-19?

For the latest information about the Coronavirus (COVID-19), the Library recommends these reliable online resources:
Help with Local COVID-19 Resources
Summit County Public Health
Ohio Department of Health
US Center for Disease Control
World Health Organization
Coronavirus Research Database
US Government Response to COVID-19