COVID-19 Operations

Library Operations and Services

In responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Burlington County Library System (Library) has instituted temporary measures to comply with emergency county, state and federal health and safety directives while providing viable and practicable services. This policy temporarily supersedes current library policies to the extent such policy would conflict with emergency measures taken in response to the current public health State of Emergency. The primary purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of library employees and the public. Accordingly, the Library Commission will apply federal, state or county orders or directives taking into account the ability of the library to transition operations and services while expediently managing internal resources such as staffing, budget and administrative tasks.

In general, the following conventions shall apply and may be administratively implemented by the Library Director, in consultation with the Commission Chairperson, and with timely notice to the Commission as a whole at its next regularly scheduled Commission meeting following any implementation or change:

  • Library buildings may be closed or public access may be curtailed.
  • Public access to services, resources, programs and spaces may be reduced.
  • When feasible, the Library will provide access to resources, accounts and customer support using digital, electronic or other means.
  • When necessary the Library will adjust, modify or override circulation parameters such as due dates and fine accruals to assist customers.
  • Reasonable safety practices and procedures will be implemented to ensure a safe environment for employees and the public.
    These practices may include, but are not limited to:
    • Mandatory temperature checks for all persons entering Library buildings.
    • Facial coverings when in common or public areas.
    • Physical distancing measures when practical.
    • Other practices or procedures that may be recommended or required by governmental agencies, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health (PEOSH).

This policy is not comprehensive or exhaustive and will be adjusted as official directives or library operations change. This temporary policy, and any corresponding supersession of standing policies duly authorized and approved by the Burlington County Library Commission, shall remain in effect either until amended or repealed by the Commission, or the conclusion of the State of New Jersey’s Declaration of a State of Emergency, whichever comes first.