Little free library friends,
We hope this finds you well and that you are keeping your spirits and health up during the COVID-19 pandemic and its “social distancing.”
We have had a few people contact us about little free libraries and COVID-19. As you know, we support little free libraries by posting our map of LFLs, collecting donated books and recirculating them, and offering other advice and publicity. The libraries themselves are owned and operated by organizations or – most often – by community minded people like you.
During this time of crisis, it’s natural to want to use your LFL to support the community and provide reading materials. Going for a walk or taking a bike ride to visit LFLs is a safe activity assuming that you follow physical distancing recommendations – two metres, or two arm’s lengths away from others. If you are concerned over the risk of touching books or handles, remember that the virus is not something that comes in through the skin. Washing your hands regularly and not touching your face are good hygiene practices to follow.
For little free library custodians, it would be a great time to wipe down books and LFL surfaces, and to continue to wipe surfaces regularly.
At the same time, we understand if you believe it’s best to close your LFL during the pandemic. If you do close your LFL, we recommend that you remove all the books (to avoid people being tempted) and to post a notice about it.
Certainly, if you are sick, don’t share or handle books in your library until you are symptom free. If in doubt, follow advice from the BC CDC, use common sense, and when in doubt, err on the side of caution.
Once we get the all clear, GVPN is planning another LFL picnic, building on last year’s success, so stay tuned.
Thanks to all little free library owners and those who share books for everything you do to help build community.
