MARCH 13, 2020
To our valued community,
As a high-traffic, well-loved, and essential community resource, Highland Park Public Library is working with local government to closely monitor the evolving status and potential risk of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) for our patrons and staff. As one of the most highly utilized public spaces in our community, the library is a natural hub for residents to meet, borrow materials, and attend public events.
While there have been no reported community spread of the coronavirus in Highland Park, the Borough is being extremely cautious, as the safety and health of everyone who lives in, works in, and visits Highland Park is our first priority. We encourage everyone who is unwell to stay home and rest.
For the safety and health of all of our residents, Highland Park Public Library will be closed to the public beginning 5:00pm on Friday, March 13 through Sunday, March 29, 2020. In addition, all programming has been postponed through April 12, 2020. It is our goal to maintain operations as much as possible while mitigating the risk to patrons. Staff will be available during the library’s posted operating hours to answer questions by phone (732-572-2750) and via email (adultref@hppl.org).
No fines will be assessed during this time. All due dates have been extended through mid-April. All holds will remain active until the library reopens. No physical books can be borrowed at this time, but all downloadable materials and virtual services remain available.
You can still access excellent library service from home. Visit the library’s website at www.hpplnj.org, where you can access the following for free. If you need a library card number to access these resources, please call us at 732-572-2750.
- downloadable books and audiobooks eLibraryNJ
- resources through our online databases
- renewal of library materials by phone or online
- remote reference service by phone or email
- accurate and quality information and updates, particularly about COVID-19 from reputable federal and local sources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the World Health Organization, stress the importance of practicing social distancing and discontinuing large gatherings in order to slow the rate of transmission, lowering the number of active cases at one time. The simple act of closing our physical doors temporarily can help us avoid overwhelming the healthcare system. For a more detailed explanation, please visit flattenthecurve.com. The most current and best possible resource for all information related to COVID-19 still remains through the CDC: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Please call us with any questions at 732-572-2750, or visit us online at www.hpplnj.org.
On behalf of Library Administration, the Board of Trustees, and the Borough of Highland Park, we thank you for your continued cooperation. Be assured that we are following national guidelines to keep our community as safe as possible during this time. Feel free to direct questions or concerns to me at any time by emailing kjaggers@hpplnj.org. Stay well.
Sincerely,
Kate Jaggers
Library Director
