Library service levels have been modified to better align with Oregon's new Risk and Protection Framework. Generally, the library service level will be tied to the county's current infection risk level; however, there could be times where a library location might be at a higher level than the infection risk level. Examples include if library staff have been asked to quarantine due to exposure to COVID-19, or a shortage of cleaning supplies means staff are unable to sanitize appropriately. 

Libraries are currently at Level 4: Take Out Only service. Effective Friday, December 18 when Lake County moves to the Moderate Risk level, libraries will open at Level 2: Advanced Precautions. Library staff will be happy to welcome the public back in our buildings. Please note that Saturdays at the Main Library in Lakeview remain Take Out Only due to staff constraints.

When visiting your libraries remember:

• If you are sick, stay home.
• Stay at least 6 feet from others.
• Masks are required over mouth and nose.*

Beginning Friday, December 18, all library locations will have new signs with the current service level. If you have questions about what services are available, click the image above to enlarge it, or contact your local library. For those who prefer not to come inside, Take Out is still available for checking items out as well as printing or copies. For questions about library service levels, contact Library Director Amy Hutchinson at 541-947-6019 or amyh@lakecountylibrary.org.

The library staff and board would like to thank everyone for their continued patience and goodwill as we work to stay safe and healthy while providing as much library access as possible. We thank you for the efforts you have made to reduce the spread of infection and enable increased access to services. 

* Masks or face coverings must be worn over the mouth and nose by everyone over 5. If you cannot wear a mask or face covering due to a disability or health condition, contact your local library to find out what accommodations are available for you. 

Lake County Library District Take Out Only service has been extended due to continued rising COVID-19 case numbers in Lake County. During Take Out Only service, the public cannot access the inside of library buildings, but can still check out books or use Wi-Fi outside the building. The library began Take Out Only service on November 18, 2020.
 
“Oregon Health Authority reported 88 new COVID-19 cases in Lake County during the month of November, and 74 of those were in the second half of the month,” said Library Director Amy Hutchinson. “Based on our library board approved pandemic response service levels, we need to remain at Take Out only until the spread is lessened,” said Hutchinson. The majority of library staff are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 based on age or health condition. When new Oregon Health Authority Guidelines and county risk levels are issued later this week, library staff and board will reassess library service levels based on the new information.
 
Virtual and Take Out services will be available during modified hours. Library patrons can still place holds online and via telephone as well as check items out through Library Take Out. Book drops will also be emptied and materials checked in during the closure. No overdue fines will be charged. The Main Library meeting room will not be available for public use during the closure. Online services such as downloadable e-books and audio books remain available at all times.
 
For questions or more information, visit the Lake County Library District website at www.lakecountylibrary.org, or call your local library.