Libraries around the country have been in the news for distributing at-home COVID-19 tests, but we haven’t heard of too many libraries actually offering COVID-19 testing, until now! Some RAILS libraries have started offering this service, including Three Rivers Public Library District. The director, Lauren Offerman, came up with the idea after she was having difficulty finding a place to get tested. The library partnered with a local testing lab and, at their first event, was able to test over 100 people in less than 48 hours. The future plan is to do rapid testing on everyone and do PCR testing for those that test positive on the rapid test.

Morris Area Public Library District had a similar set-up and was able to test 167 people in seven hours. They set up a four-walled heated canopy in the parking lot to limit exposure to staff. Resa Mai, the library’s director, suggests involving or at least informing key stakeholders such as the local health department and the police department if you decide to offer testing. She said that library staff time was minimal and the staff was very supportive of this event.

Libraries are always finding ways to reinvent themselves and meet the ever-changing needs of their patrons. That has certainly been the case during this pandemic. For example, libraries have been challenged to change up their programming, either making it available outdoors or virtually. One such example is Lisle Library District and its hugely successful Fall Fest.

Hosting COVID-19 testing at the library and offering safe programming options are just two examples of how libraries can adapt during a difficult time and offer much-needed services to their patrons. Is your library offering a unique service during the pandemic? We’d love for you to comment below.

Blog post submitted by Debbie Baaske, Acting Member Engagement Manager