Here’s how Miami libraries are taking steps to keep readers safe from coronavirus
“In times of turmoil, the library is my sanctuary,” a Miami Herald columnist recently wrote.
But as one ventures to this oasis of books, or takes advantage of the county libraries’ computers, free Wi-Fi, language classes, tax assistance and résumé writing classes, or to cast a vote in the Florida primaries in the president’s race, one stops to think:
Coronavirus.
After all, if they are saying we have to now be concerned with the cash in our wallets carrying the virus that causes COVID-19, what are we to make of the libraries’ much-touched keyboards, table tops, books?
So we asked.
Miami-Dade Public Library System
“The Miami-Dade Public Library System continues to monitor the coronavirus and to follow the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses,” said Leila Khalil, spokeswoman for the Miami-Dade Public Library System.
“While no cases have been reported in Miami-Dade County, we are taking additional measures beyond our regular daily cleaning activities at all 50 of our library locations,” she said.
This means more than just the regular janitorial cleanings at all of the Miami-Dade branches one can expect in normal times.
“We are placing additional emphasis on cleaning tables, computer areas and equipment, bathrooms, seating areas, door handles and other frequently touched surfaces,” Khalil said.
Miami-Dade libraries put hand sanitizing stations at entrances and other high-traffic areas as supplements to the cleaning and sanitizing sprays, wipes, disinfectants, soap, and other products that already were fixtures inside the buildings.
“Further, staff throughout our library branches is assisting with additional cleaning throughout each workday to help prevent the spread of germs,” Khalil said.
Contamination by books?
As for the stacks of books and magazines, as well as DVDs, Blu-rays and CDs, there have been no reported cases of contamination by books and the risk is low for other critters lurking in the pages. But as with paper bills, it’s always a wise practice to wash one’s hands after flipping through the pages. Those books get around.
Miami-Dade Public Library is also working alongside the CDC to place informational posters in English and Spanish at its 50 libraries that offer advice on how to stop the spread of germs — wash your hands, cover your cough or sneeze, stay at home when you’re sick.
This story was originally published March 6, 2020 at 10:27 AM.
