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1 | What is the current status of the public library sector? (This question is focused on whether libraries are open or closed - please include open/closed numbers or percentages if you possibly can, share if staff are in libraries or working from home) | What services are presently being offered by public libraries in your country? (e.g. browsing, access to library buildings for study, contact and collect, online, housebound - any summary is helpful) | Can you share any details on the impact of the switch to digital services e.g. figures on increases in eLending, online membership, or numbers of online events and attendances? | What guidance documents are you working with? (please share details of any government plan that libraries are part of, and then any library-specific guidance that you (or others) have developed for the sector. Please share links if you have them! | Are libraries quarantining returned books? (if yes, please share how long for, any special measures, any health and safety guidance that is governing this practice) | What other safety measures are in place in the library? (e.g. do users/staff have to wear masks, are details of users taken for contact tracing, are there time limits on library use etc.) | Have there been instances of people contracting the virus in/through libraries? If yes, please summarise | Any further information or links? | ||||||||||||||||||
2 | Flanders | Libraries are open. Starting on October 29, all cultural institutions have to close, but the public libraries remain open with a limited acces for the public or with a take-away service. | Public libraries offer acces to the shelves and limited acces to public computers and study spaces. Some libraries offer take-away services. Some libraries offer home-delivery for specific groups. The offered services vary from library to library. Some libraries still recieve groups of schoolchildren under the age of 12. | Fundels digital picturebooks: During lockdown was the use of Fundels digital picturebooks 10 times higher then in the same periode the year before. After the lockdown the use remained dubbel as high als in 2019. - Fundels first reader -books: during lockdown was the use 19 times higher then in 2019, now it is still the dubbel of in 2019. - GoPress digital newspaper archive: during lockdown was the use 75% higher, after lockdown it dropped to 50% higher then in 2019. - E-books: During lockdown there was no e-bookplatform. The Flemish e-bookplatform was launched on September 17 2020. 165 libraries participate. After two weeks there were 9000 users and 13000 lendings. | There is a basic protocol for the cultural sector and a sectorguide for libraries and archives - https://www.vlaanderen.be/cjm/nl/protocollen - https://www.vvbad.be/vvbad-werking/professionalisering/beroepscodes-competenties/sectorgids-voor-de-informatiesector | No, experts announced three months ago that quarantining is nog longer necessary. Some libraries still quarantine returns. | users and staff have to wear facemasks at all time. Users are limited to one person per 10m2. Activities and events can no longer take place, except for children under the age of 12. | None known. | ||||||||||||||||||
3 | Croatia | Open | After reopening on 26. April 2020 with loan and e-services only, PLs in Croatia gradually extended the range of services offered to patrons but under strict observation of epidemiological measures. At present, PLs are open for visitors; anti-Covid measures are maintained but restrictions may vary on a daily basis according to national anti-Coid guidelines; reading rooms are open for patrons but with heavy restrictions (patrons are required to register with their personal dana so they can be readily identified as contacts in case of infection); reading rooms for children are closed and only collecting/return services are provided; events are still allowed but preferrably outside working hours (so as to reduce the number of visitors and staff present), or in open spaces, or outside the PL (community centres and similar) in order to ensure sufficient social distancing. For physical events, the visitors have to pre-confirm their attendance, register before entering, temperature measurement, hand disinfection and facial masks are mandatory at all times. | A substantial number of events are held digitally, either by livestream or via dedicated platforms (e.g. readings, round tables, quizes). | mandatory face masks and gloves for staff and mandatory face masks for patrons; limited number of patrons+staff simultaneously present on the premises (depending on the size of the space); social distancing (2 m); quaranteen and disinfection for returned books. During the summer months, as Covid figures decreased, library events and programs were resumed in most PL, but with pre-confirmation of attendance by mail or phone, limited number of visitors, face masks and under open-air conditions. | |||||||||||||||||||||
4 | Czech Republic | Libraries were closed down on October 22 along with other services and shops. But they remained opened as the last cultural institutions. Theatres, museums, cinemas etc. were closed down earlier in October. Cultural and educational activities for public couldn't be realized in October, only book lending and study rooms in limited extent. | Book lending isn't recommended in any way (pick up point etc.). Free movement of people was limited to necessary things (work, shop etc.). But some libraries plan on doing it anyway. Libraries offer online services, e-lending, online educational activities etc. | No figures yet. | Quarantining books wasn't necessary. | No. On the contrary libraries were presented as places with minimum risk according to statistical data. | ||||||||||||||||||||
5 | Denmark | Libraries are open. Some of the employees are working from home. | In general all services are being offered. Nevertheles there are limitations on events. | Since medio March there have been extended access to digital library services (e-books, digital audio-books, movies, newspaper databases). From April till July the elending was increased by more than 100 %, and the number of unique users has increased by about 30 %. Since August the e-lending activities have dropped a bit, but numbers are still way higher compared to August 2019. | In the field of the Ministry of Culture there are general and specific guidelines regarding cultural instititions, eg. libraries. The guidelines are part of The Health Authorities overall strategy and generel guidelines. Guidelines are updated regularly. The guidelines regarding cultural institutions, and the specific library guidelines are divided in guidelines regarding audience in motion or seated audience. Link to detailed guidelines regarding reopened libraries (updated October 26th.) : https://kum.dk/fileadmin/_kum/3_Temaer_og_kampagner/Covid-19/Retningslinjer_for_genaabning/2020_oktober/Retningslinjer_for_kulturinstitutioner_hvor_publikum_er_i_bevaegelse.pdf | No quarantine in general. | Update October 29th: In most public indoor places in Denmark you have to wear a face mask. This means From 29 October, people must wear face mask when visiting a library. Visitors do not have to wear a face mask when sitting down. The rule applies to anyone over 12 years of age. The guidelines from the Health Authorities and the Cultural Ministry recommend several safety measures in the libraries; eg: - Hand sanitizer(70-85% alcohol) should be available in the lending areas and for PCs, printers and similar equipment. Borrowers should by signage be encouraged to regular use thereof. The libraries can offer disposable gloves at self-service machines, for example at the stations where books are lent and handed over. - Reading rooms and seating areas should comply with the health authorities' requirements for distance and must comply with executive order requirements for area per. person. - Reading / study places should either be cleaned between each visitor (however, after one concrete assessment of needs), or it must be possible for visitors to carry out their own cleaning. - Libraries are encouraged to clean daily or more frequently the public PCs, printers and other equipment. Library staff should continuously monitor compliance with the guidelines. - Libraries should consider whether unmanned opening hours can take place securely and should be at unmanned opening hours regularly examine compliance with guidelines. - Delivered materials should be handled sufficiently safely by staff. Staff should carry out frequent hand disinfection or hand washing. | None known. | ||||||||||||||||||
6 | England and Wales | Libraries are open, about 70% of branches. Footfall is about 21% cf last year, and stronger in rural branches than city centre ones. 85% library services offering PC access, and 75% library services open for browsing. In Wales Libraries closed for two week "fire break" 24/10/2020 | Browsing, Order & Collect, home library service, PC access. A few are also offering study space, activities and exhibitions | Stats given in a recent report about Libraries in lockdown: https://www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/library-services-online-events-lockdown. 75% services ran online events; eLening increased by c. 150%, reservations doubled. | Library Service Recovery Guidance, written by LIbraries Conneceted and signed off by govt https://www.librariesconnected.org.uk/resource/service-recovery-toolkit-2020-word. In Wales: https://gov.wales/sport-recreation-and-leisure-guidance-phased-return-html | 72 hours, following guidance from Public Health England (govt body) | All staff and users wear masks, social distancing, hand santising and cleaning regimes, limit numbers in library, queue management, one way systems, p;astic screens etc | None known, although a handful of library staff have contracted the virus - though this may not have been at work | Complex situation in England and Wales now due to varying restrictions in different areas depending on infection levels, and Wales having its own policies | |||||||||||||||||
7 | Estonia | Libraries are open. Some of the employees are working from home during the self-isolate-quarantining period. | Full service is provided in library building and online: access to library for study and leasure, browsing, cultural events, exhibitions, trainings. | Statistics data has not been collected yet. E-lending from ELLU (16.09) 14 571 users and 85 445 lendings, in 2019 5772 users and 39 218 lendings. CoBal 11 2020 https://www.cobal2020.com/: presentation Estonian libraries and librarians during the COVID-19 outbreak/ Krista Lepik, Ilmar Vaaro https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkzMWpVrY6Q&feature=youtu.be | Library Service Guidance: https://www.kul.ee/sites/kulminn/files/news-related-files/juhend_raamatukogudele_alates_8._septembrist.pdf Official information from Estonian Government: https://www.kriis.ee/en Ministry of Culture: https://www.kul.ee/en | Quarantining of returned books is no longer recommended as a necessary measure to prevent spread of Covid19. | In the absence of a physical barrier / screen, 2 m physical distancing must be maintained. Masks are recommended. Wash your hands, keep distance 2 m, stay at home when sick, download mobile app HOIA | None known. In some libraries, the employee has fallen ill and close contacts have been guaranteed, but the disease has not spread to other employees or readers. | ||||||||||||||||||
8 | Finland | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
9 | France | Most of the libraries are open (with somes restrictions : number of people, toilets closed,... but each library is making its own rules). Others are opend just for drive service. | For most of the libraries : browsing, access to library buildings for study and leasure, contact and collect, online. But cultural events are closed or in a very small format. Toilets, journal and magazines, video games are usually still closed. | (survey made in march 2020) https://www.culture.gouv.fr/Sites-thematiques/Livre-et-lecture/Actualites/Enquete-l-impact-de-la-crise-sanitaire-Covid-19-sur-l-offre-numerique-des-bibliotheques-des-bibliotheques-territoriales | https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiKspnJy9TsAhUHxYUKHXwBDucQFjAAegQIDhAD&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.biblio-covid.fr%2F&usg=AOvVaw0UHDTXfwv3NwCinuJJ30NB | 3 to 10 (but mostly 3 days). Some libraries are cleaning the books after the quaranteen | users/staff have to wear masks and have to clean their hands | Some libraries are closed because three persons of the staff member get the virus (= cluster). But it is not so common ans only for a few days. | We are waiting for teh decisions of our government today or at least this week | |||||||||||||||||
10 | Germany | Libraries are open. However, this evening, government decision for "lock-down light" as of 2 November. Currently unclear whether libraries are affected as not named. | Until today, all services are offered. However, events are limited and numbers of people entering the library are limited. | great increase in e-Lending, numbers of new online members increased, exact not yet available, but on Friday | No federal government guidance, each federal state has own regulations. Association has written recommendations: https://www.bibliotheksverband.de/fileadmin/user_upload/DBV/themen/2020_04_23_dbv_Empfehlungen_Wiederer%C3%B6ffnung_Bibliothek_Corona_final.pdf | mostly three days (recommendation by federal institute for risk assessment, included in our recommendation, followed by many libraries | user/staff wear masks, social distancing, hand santising, limit numbers in library, queue management, one way systems, p;astic screens, some federal states requier that libraries take user details for contact tracing | Read of several cases in one public library in Berlin, but could not verify information | More to follow soon as it is currently unclear whether libraries fall under the comming lock-down regulation (yes, if there are compared with theathers and cinemas, no, if there are compared with schools and kindergarden | |||||||||||||||||
11 | Greece | With the emergence of the pandemic in the first ten days of March, the InteriorΑffairsMinistry, which supervises Municipal Libraries, decided among other measures, to suspend the function ofMunicipal Libraries. MunicipalLibraries therefore, remained closed to the public until further notice. The suspension lasted until June, when Libraries began to reopen safelyfor users, after about two months of interruption, due to preventive measures, against the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. All municipal libraries comply daily and thoroughly with all relevant provisions, conditions, protection and hygiene guidelines announced by the competent committee of the National Public Health Organization. Please note that according to the E.O.D.Y. guidelines,the use of masks and glovesby the trading publicbecame mandatory. In Greece, Municipal Libraries, due to the epidemiological burden and with a view of protecting the public health of all citizens and above all, the most vulnerable groups of the population, follow specific rules. In the context of safety and health protocols, users of the Libraries should be informed about the following: 1.they can attend only by appointment 2.they can remain on sitefor 15 minutes 3. they have access to the Library, but are served at the entrance to the floor by the staff 4. they can refer to the list of electronic directories of the Library, in order to find the material they want, in advance 5. they have no access to the toilets 8. it is mandatory to wear a mask and gloves at all times 9. do not need an appointmentfor book returns 10.prior consultation with the staff is required by researchers who want to use newspapers, magazines or OldCollections. | Municipal Libraries have reopened since 1/7. Most allow browsing of bookshelves and physical lending services. In this case: 1. It is necessary to use a mask and gloves 2. Keep a distance of at least 1.5 m 3. Waiting time inside the Library is 15 minutes. However, there are also libraries that lend books by appointment and the user receives them in the courtyard. Users of the Library don't need an appointment to return books. | Statistics data has not been collected yet | • ACT OF LEGAL CONTENT Measures to tackle the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and other urgent provisions. Government Gazette: A 75 - 30.03.2020 • The entire extraordinary legislative work of the government (P.N.P., K.Y.A., M.A., circulars) concerning protection measures against the new coronavirus COVID-19 (24/10/2020 ) https://www.ynanp.gr/el/gr-epikoinwnias-enhmerwshs/prostasia-apo-neo-koronoio-nomothesia/ | In Greece, the 72-hour quarantine applies to returned library documents, which will be placed in a designated area and reused after the quarantine period. | General rules: keep a distance of at least 1.5 m from each other, use masks and gloves, as recommended. However, facemasks are necessary for indoor areas where distances are difficult to maintain. And last but not least, limited number of customers based on floor area. | None known | In general, the number of contaminations is growing and restrictions are getting stricter. Covid-19 is in the second wave and is in a partial lock-down. | |||||||||||||||||
12 | Ireland | All library buildings are currently closed to the public under Level 5 restrictions of the Government's Living with COVID-19 Plan. | All library authorities are offering online services, with 22/30 local authorities offering a housebound delivery service. Some authorities are continuing services to schools. | New library memberships during the COVID19 crisis exploded - over 30,000 new members joined the library in March 2020 compared to just over 17,000 in March 2019. The week commencing 29 March saw a 313% increase in new users of eBooks and eAudiobooks service, a 467% increase in e-learning courses being taken, a 227% increase in language courses being taken and a 246% increase in usage of the online newspapers/e-magazines. Between the first day of library closures on March 13th and May 2nd, 2020: E-books borrowed: 127,381, E-audio books borrowed: 120,622, Press Reader (newspapers/magazines): 515,417 sessions, Universal Class (online classes): 70,629 login sessions, Transparent Languages (online language courses): 8,344 sessions, RB Digital e-magazine: 93,059 checkouts. National reading programmes Spring into Storytime, Summer Stars & Family Time at Your Library moved online - video galleries on www.librariesireland.ie hosting thousands of online storytimes from libraries around the country ammassing hundreds of thousands of views. Online events by libraries around the country included book clubs, writing workshops, coding and STEAM events, Healthy Ireland talks, photography course hosted on YouTube, online drawing lessons, a virtual Easter egg hunt and crafting activities. Also: Online yoga and parenting support groups, mindfulness, keep fit advice, yoga and chair gym classes on Zoom Poetry competitions, online art competitions, online quizzes, etc. | Irish Government Plan for Living with Covid-19 (currently at Level 5): https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/ Standard Operating Guidance (SOG) No. 23 Libraries - COVID-19 Requirements | Quarantining of returned books is no longer recommended as a necessary measure to prevent spread of Covid19. Some libraries have decided locally to continue quarantining materials for 72 hours. | When libraries were open to the public at Level 3 on the Irish Government Plan for Living with Covid-19, safety measures in place included the following: In the absence of a physical barrier / screen, 2m physical distancing must be maintained with colleagues and during any interactions with members of the public, the wearing of face coverings by members of the public entering Public Libraries buildings (with specific exceptions - e.g. person under 13 years of age). | None known | ||||||||||||||||||
13 | Lithuania | Libraries are open | borrowing, browsing, access to library bildings, IT access, contact and collect, online services and activities, eBooks. There are some restrictions for any indoor or outdoor events (face masks are obligatory, at least 1 meter between spectators outdoors or at least 2 meters indoors. The number of participants in events organised indoors and outdoors is not restricted, but the organisers of the event must ensure the registration of participants) | Statistics data has not been collected yet. | Decisions of Government of the Republic of Lithuania the State Commander of National Emergency Operations (https://koronastop.lrv.lt/en/news/covid-19-related-restrictions-updated-on-21-october-2020); Recommendations for the organization of library activities and the provision of services during an emergency sutuation due to an outbreak of COVID-19 (order of the Minister of Culture dated 31 July 2020) | Yes, 72 hours quarantine | Staff/users wear protective face masks, at least 10 sq. m. of space per visitor at points of service, 2-meter safety distance between the working place, mixed or remote work, disinfection, hand hygiene, etc. | None known | ||||||||||||||||||
14 | Netherlands | Libraries are open | borrowing, browsing, access to library building, in some cases to go online / PC access and in some cases for study, no large activities, only small groups allowed (see measures below) | In march the impact was severe, in October, the impact is normal | In general the central government has issues a roadmap in which the restrictions are related to several key data points, such as number of restrictions. See here: https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/binaries/rijksoverheid/documenten/publicaties/2020/10/13/risiconiveaus-en-maatregelen-covid-19/routekaart-publiek-v2.pdf | Yes, 36 hours quarantine | Nationwide advice en mandatory rules (see link to roadmap). Local libraries determine with regional security coordinators how to protect their employees and the general public. In general hygiene, social distancing, working from home, etc is compulsory. | None known | In general, the number of contaminations is growing and restrictions are getting stricter. NL is in the second wave and is in a partial lock-down. | |||||||||||||||||
15 | Northern Ireland | Libraries are open | Book and Collect, Access to IT, Homecall service, online programmes, eBooks and magazines | 110% increase in use of eServices for period 1 April to 30 Sept 2020 compared with 2019 | Public Health Guidance: The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (Amendment No. 9) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 | Yes, 72 hours quarantine | Users/staff wear masks. Social distancing. Cough Screens in place, time limits on use, periodic cleaning/sanitising | None known | ||||||||||||||||||
16 | Norway | Libraries are open | Most normal services offered, but local restrictions. | Increase 123 % in eLending in the period 12 March - 15 June compared with the month before close-down. For children's literature only increase by 388%, also due to the annual Summer Reading campaign. Almost 15% of the public libraries produced digital events in a six week period (May-June) when such events were supported by national funds. | Nothing prepared by national library authorities, but guidelines have been prepared by the Library association and the Norwegian Union of Librarians. These are based on general guidelines from the Institute for Public Health, and they have been recommended by the Ministry of Culture: https://www.bibforb.no/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Smittevernveileder.pdf | The statement from the Norwegian Institute for Public Health on 22 April was that risk of infection from books is low and that quarantine for books is not necessary, | Local variations. Social distancing. Restrictions on numbers of people. Time limits on use. No extended opening hours. No eating or coffee. Cough screens. Details of visitors taken when attending events. | None known | ||||||||||||||||||
17 | Poland | Since 7th to 29th November all cultural sites in Poland including public libraries are closed to public. Only on-line services (digital libraries, licenced e-books etc, social-media, on-line events, etc.) will be available to patrons. | Except on-line services all on-site services including borrowing books are currently unavailable. | No availabe data on the national level yet | Recommendations of the National Library of Poland for public libraries: https://www.bn.org.pl/aktualnosci/4035-rekomendacje-bn-dotyczace-funkcjonowania-bibliotek-podczas-epidemii,-stan-na-24-pazdziernika-2020-roku.html | Yes, 72 hours quarantine is advised | Users/staff wear masks. Social distancing. Cough Screens in place, periodic cleaning/sanitising; separade points/desks to collect and to return books; on-line events only | Some library branches were temporary closed due to a quarantine of the libraray stuff. No cases that anybody get contaminated through the library use were reported. | ||||||||||||||||||
18 | Portugal | All PL are open. Only 7 PL are closed due to municipality decision. | Regular services are being offered, with maximum number os persons in the building and activities. Most libraries allow browsing access and continue to offer contact and collect and housebound. Most PL mix up services. | Online activities are a huge success: since last april we are having a increase number of online activities: storytelling, book clubs, online activities, reading sessions, training courses, etc. Since last september its available for portuguese PL the first national digital service available for PL with newspapers/magazines (under subscription). | In Portugal the National PL Authority publish a document for reopening libraries with 4 phases and suggestion for running library services. Document available here: http://bibliotecas.dglab.gov.pt/pt/noticias/Paginas/recaberBP.aspx | Most libraries are quarantining book for 3 days. These recomendation its refered in this document: http://bibliotecas.dglab.gov.pt/pt/noticias/Paginas/recaberBP.aspx | Some municipalities have issued more restricted rules for library services. Less users in the building, activities at the library, using room and services. 7 PL are still closed. | There are no reports. | The PL National Authority has organize the aplication to PL of a protocol thinked for tourism services and commerce called "Clean and Safe". Its a seal/certificarion issued by the Tourism National Authority that its available for PL. https://portugalcleanandsafe.com/en The feedback from librarians and community its very positive. More information here: http://bibliotecas.dglab.gov.pt/pt/noticias/Paginas/Selo-Clean-and-Safe-Equipamentos-Municipais-de-Cultura.aspx | |||||||||||||||||
19 | Scotland | Each of Scotland's 32 local authority areas have some libraries open. Overall there is 57% of the building estate currently open however it is an everchanging picture. Library opening hours are much reduced to support additional cleaning regimes in line with Scottish Government Guidance. Only public facing library staff are in the library buildings, other staff are working from home. The Scottish Government are introducing a new Framework of restriction which will see libraries closed if infections rates rise - so far no libraries which have re-opened have had to close. | Its a mixed picture. All library services have strengthened their online offer. Some libraries have browsing, bookable PCs and bookable study spaces. Some libaries are only offering Click and Collect from the library building. Some libraries are offering housebound/delivery services. Some Mobile Library services have restarted and only offer pick up and drop off. | At the height of lockdown elending ( downloads) had increased across Scotland by 250%. This has dropped back slightly although still significantly higher than previous download with an increase of almost 200%. Online membership also increased over this time however this has now tailed off. Online events had a mixed response for example one library service attracted over 4000 downloads of storytimes while other struggled to get 100. Online events ranges from online book groups, storytimes, jigsaws, quizzes, newsletters, classes eg cookery, painting etc There is research being undertaken by the Robert Gordon University to capture all this. | SLIC has worked with the Scottish Government on its COVID19 response guidance for public libraries. https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-public-libraries-guidance/ The guidance is reviewed (as required by law) every 3 weeks and amended if necessary. The overall guidance is currently being reviewed to bring it into line with the proposed 5 level Framework which sets out restrictions for Scotland given the prevalence of COVID19. This should be passed in the Scottish Parliament on 27th Oct. | Library books are being quarantined for 72hours on the advice of Public Health Scotland. This has been checked a couple of times when other conflicting advice has been circulating however Public Health Scotland has confirmed that it should be 72hours. | It is mandatory for both staff and public to wear masks in public libraries. Hand sanitation points are also available, at customer service desks perspex screens have been mounted. Physical Distancing is 2 meters and usually there are floor marking to assist with this. Contact tracing is essenting and Scotland uses a Test and Protect system https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-test-and-protect/ | None known | ||||||||||||||||||
20 | Slovenia | All cultural institutions, including all libraries, are closed to users from Saturday, October 24, 2020 onwards. Only those employees who provide on-demand services for users are present in libraries (some 15% of all employees), some are reassigned to work from home (if the nature of their work allows it), others are assigned to wait for work where they are entitled to 80% of the basic salary (the same for all economic sectors in the country, not just the public sector). Bibliobuses do not run. More vulnerable groups of employees (over 65, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, etc.) and people with coronavirus disease are at home and entitled to 100% salary compensation. | All libraries provide access to electronic databases and other digital content. Ever since May 2020, event and educational activities have moved to an online environment, mostly through video conferencing tools (ZOOM) and Facebook. The implementation of events and trainings is tailored to small groups of participants, with attention when choosing performers (boutique events) and the target audience. Major events (conferences, presentations, project closures) are moving into the e-environment. Borrowing of materials takes place through new and adapted forms: borrowing by post, the possibility of personal contactless collection in front of libraries, home delivery of materials (works only in larger cities and not in all libraries). The offer of pre-prepared reading packages is emphasized, where we enable users to borrow a thematic selection of books according to the suggestions of librarians. The promotion of reading takes place in digital form, with emphasis on the use of online paths to readers - online reading groups. Reference and information work, as well as reading advisory, are carried out using online conferencing tools | The way the library is used has changed noticeably. There are fewer longer visits to the library, visitors usually pre-ordered or reserved material, and then just picked it up at the library. Initial data show that physical borrowing of materials in the first half of 2020 was one-third lower than in the same period in 2019. Measures due to the pandemic particularly affected borrowing of materials for children, while borrowing of materials for adults was only 15% lower. E-book lending has increased significantly, with an increase of more than 200%. Borrowing on digital platforms and the use of digital portals increased significantly in the first half of the year compared to the entire year 2019, depending on individual sources, from 60% (local history portal Kamra.si) to almost 600% (PressReader, Kanopy). | The Association of Slovenian Public Libraries prepared a document with focus points for the preparation of a plan for the implementation of protection measures during the pandemic disease in each of the libraries. It defines measures to prevent human infections and limit the spread of disease among employees and users, as well as the normal course of work in the institution during an epidemic. Protocols for dealing with infections of employees, how key jobs are being replaced, measures envisaged in the event of workers' absence and crisis communication have been prepared. Unfortunately, the document is only available in Slovene and not publicly published. | Yes, returned books still have to be quarantined for 3 days, but currently most libraries do not accept books, but only through various methods of borrowing. Users can keep the materials until the libraries reopen, which we do not know when will happen. | Currently, mandatory wearing of face masks indoors as well as outdoors is ordered throughout the country. Hand disinfection is mandatory upon entering any enclosed space and social distancing (1.5 meters). The only exception is outdoor sports activity, where a face mask is not mandatory, but there must be greater social distancing (3 meters). However, masks are not mandatory for children under 6 years of age. It is highly recommended to use the mobile application for monitoring contacts #ostanizdrav (#staysafe). As mentioned, the libraries are currently closed, 2 weeks before the closure, the number of people allowed to be on the premises at the same time (1 person per 20 m2) was limited. Otherwise, in Slovenia there is a restriction on movement between 21.00 and 06.00, a temporary ban on gathering more than 6 people (in public and private spaces), and a temporary ban on all events. | No, not that we are aware of. Some librarians got ill, but It didn't spread to their colleagues or users. | Officially, most public life was suspended for a week, starting on Saturday, October 24, 2020, but as of Tuesday, October 27, 2020, it is again forbidden to cross municipal borders, so the epidemic situation is expected to continue for quite some time. | |||||||||||||||||
21 | Spain | Mostly open. With capacity restrictions that adapt in accordance with the changes in the measures from local, regional and national authorities. In some regions, they only offer information services (by phone or mail), lending under demand and in-house use by appoinment | In general terms, all of them are offering lending, ILL, use of Internet and in-house use. With the precautions and limitations due to the situation. Some of them are also offering cultural activities respecting the capacity limitations. Some of them offer new services, for example Extremadura: cooperation with Food Bank to collect and distribute food to families in need. | In general terms, an increase of the use of e-lending platforms has been experienced. Some of the regions are investing in feeding the digital collections. Use of the online catalog has increased for the materials request. The number of virtual activities has increased: ephemeris like Day of the Poetry, The Night of Books, for example, now have been celebrated exclusively in a virtual environment. Virtual reading books, that already existed, have increased its popularity. | The regions have their own acts where they establish the limitations, quarantine times, access to the collections, activities (in groups of 6 people), etc. | They are, in general terms. Although the number of days differ sometimes. Most of them its 72 hours, but also some regions are doing 14 days, as recommended by the Ministry of Culture and Sports during the first wave | Measures are basically the same, though specific data like percentages of usage vary from one region to another. Circuits marked on the floor, social distance, hidroalcoholic gel, mandatory use of mask, hand wash, distance, limitation of the capacity of reading rooms, lending with prior appointment, activities for children: in some regions they have established a maximum number of kids with an adult. Group activities like reading clubs and workshops are cancelled Ventilation measures, cleaning of bathrooms | None whatsoever, although in some cases library staff has caught the virus outside their workplaces | ||||||||||||||||||
22 | Sweden | 17/11/20: Minimal service (step 3) 21 % of all municipals Some restrictions (step 2) 5 % of all municipals Business (more or less) as Usual (step 1) 73 % of all municipals. On the count in week 46 Sweden had no fully closed libraries. During a period of 4-5 days the fully closed went from step 4 to step 3 and some restrictions. In step 3 the library is closed for the users, but contact and collect and home delivery works. In addition, most bookmobiles are still in use to deliver requested books. 10/11/20: We are doing a new count of open/closed libraries during week 45-46 . Today, 10th of November. We have counted 208 of 290 municipals. We are using a four-grade matrix based on ILFAs matrix for open/closed. Today’s counting shows that some regions have closed all libraries, 11,5 % of the counted municipals is graded as level 4, fully closed, only the digital library is available. About 9 % of the counted municipals have been graded as a level 3, the library building is closed for users, but books contact and collect is still running as well as home delivery. 74,5 % of counted municipals have “business as usual”, the library is open for users to browse the collection, lending and returning. Using computers in most libraries, but with short limited time. This is the first time during covid-19 that more than three municipals have decide a full closure of the library. Decision takers regards the situation as more sever compared to during the spring. The count of week 43-44 is not a full count; we have scheduled a focus on digital resources, digital events and digital presence in social media. We have less staff to collect the data, therefore have we planned for a partial data collection, and a focus on the digital library. The development of covid-19 restrictions have been very rapid, and we didn’t have time to adjust the data collection except for more information of open/closed. (At the turn of the month September/October, 100 % of public libraries was open. The public library's operations were available to users in all the country's municipalities. ) All information I provided for the spreadsheet have become old, the descriptions covers the situation up to last week in October. We have noticed an increase of libraries announcing that the library is not a place for gathering, only collect and return books and quick use of computers. The libraries have removed or sealed off seats and study places. //From November 2th public libraries start to closing again. Local decrease of opening hours in Uppsala from 23 Oct all public libraries in Uppsala municipal are closed during weekends. Uppsala is a local hotspot with local restrictions. At the turn of the month September / October, 100 % of public libraries are open. The public library's operations were available to users in all the country's municipalities. // Unstaffed library: A few libraries have changed their times. Some municipalities also refer to a more open library instead of a closed library. The pattern continues during the summer and week 37 (mid-September), about 40 percent of the country's municipalities have at least one "more open" library unit. We can not read any major changes during the course of the pandemic. At each data collection occasion since March / April, the situation has been approximately the same. //The same pattern applies to the library buses, which are basically running as usual. In June, almost 80 percent of the buses ran their tours, in July 87 percent. Week 37 is basically all buses on the roads again. We have only noted four buses that do not run their tours. | OUTDATED In almost all municipalities, the library's premises are also open for visits. During the summer, the library's opening hours, service and program offerings were largely "as normal". Program activities usually decrease during this period. The resumed activities have in many cases taken place outdoors, with, for example, activities for children, a book fair and a tip walk. Children have been the most common target group for the activities. By week 37, almost 98 percent of the municipalities had returned to "normal" activities with certain restrictions in events and programs. Only one municipality is judged to provide minimal service with the library premises closed for visits. From week 39, this municipality has reopened the premises and operations. Six municipalities had certain restrictions, with several branches closed and severely limited access to programs and services. In June, just under 8 per cent of the municipalities have closed branches. Week 37, the percentage has dropped to 4 percent. We can then state that most branches that have been closed due to corona appear to be open again. The opening hours of the branches have not been investigated. // The collection week 37 (mid-September) shows that the proportion of municipalities that clearly state that all or most events and programs are cancelled has dropped to 20 percent. Between weeks 16 and 22, the proportion of municipalities with cancelled events increased at each fundraising event. | OUTDATED The digital events are difficult to follow through our method of data collection. The business is advertised from a number of different platforms, the municipalities' websites as well as social media. Despite the difficulties in collecting data, we can state that many municipalities have a digital outreach business. Facebook livestream and movies, YouTube, Vimeo, Instagram and Tik Tok are some of the platforms used. // We have got information from some municipalities that the e-budget have reach it's limit and e-book lending have been temporarily cancelled. // No extra money from the government have been issued to the libraries to cover the extra costs. | In Sweden, there are no national guidelines. Each municipality makes its own decision on how to maintain infection control. In some municipalities, the libraries have been assigned status "society critical and important activities and must be kept open as far as possible. | I have no systematically collected data about quarantined books. I have seen in social media that some public libraries have their own system of quarantine of books. | OUTDATED Compared with the spring, there are now more municipalities that inform about changes in the premises on the library's websites. The fact that the libraries are refurnishing indoors is noticeable during week 37. We have made about 30 notes about various changes in everything from distance markings to closed areas. Information about corona and, for example, queue distances has also been set up on the premises. Compared with the spring, there are now more municipalities that inform about changes in the premises on the library's websites. The fact that the libraries are refurnishing indoors is noticeable during week 37. We have made about 30 notes about various changes in everything from distance markings to closed areas. Information about corona and, for example, queue distances has also been set up on the premises. // Many of the libraries' websites have clear information about corona and the restrictions on service that the pandemic entails. A common limitation is that help with a computer, scanner or printer is provided at a distance between the staff and the users. In some cases, such help is not given at all. The number of computers has been reduced and the permitted computer time may also be limited. Only four municipalities have clearly stated that all computers have been shut down completely. In some municipalities, study places and / or group rooms have been limited or completely closed. Other parts of the library, such as conservatories that are distinct social areas, have also been closed in some municipalities. Open children's library section: The children's section seem to be open. We have not found any cases where an entire children's section has been closed while the rest of the library is available. However, some areas may be limited and there may be restrictions on program operations. This applies from week 13/14 when the first round of data collection was done. We can not see that access to the childrens sections has changed during the six months KB has followed the process. | As far as I know, some people have become ill, but I have no reliable information. | https://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=sv&tl=en&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kb.se%2Fsamverkan-och-utveckling%2Fbiblioteken-under-corona%2Fnationell-overblick%2Ffolkbibliotek.html | |||||||||||||||||
23 | Switzerland | Libraries are generally still open. Canton Valais/Wallis is the first to announce closing of libraries by October 22. In the Canton Berne reading rooms (Lesesäle) will be closed in all types of libraries by October 24. | All on site-services are available. Events are restricted to 50 people attending (seated, distance, masks, hygiene). Practising activities are limited to 15 people attending (masks, hygiene, contacts). | No quarantine in general. Bibliosuisse recommends to clean the covers of returned books. | Wearing a mask is mandatory for public and staff. | |||||||||||||||||||||
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