Information on Phase 2 from MSL (5/21/20)

Information on Phase 2 from MSL (5/21/20)



This information was sent in an email on WIRED on 5/21/20 by Tracy Cook, Statewide Library Consultant at the Montana State Library
Hi,

As many of you may know, the Governor announced on Tuesday that he believes we can move to Phase 2 of the re-opening process. He is scheduling that to happen on June 1. He wanted to give organizations time to prepare. You can watch the Governor’s announcement at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ASqDIfwhpE [youtube.com].

The two key differences that phase 2 brings are:

-increasing the number of people that can gather from 10 to up to 50 (as long as physical distancing is practiced)

-tourists not having to self-quarantine for 14 days


The Governor emphasized the importance of continuing to wear cloth masks; maintaining at least 6 feet of physical distancing; screening employees for symptoms; and cleaning/sanitizing spaces and materials - especially those that are in high traffic areas. Most of what Jennie Stapp, our State Librarian, had to say in her April 30, 2020 statement still applies. You can find that information at https://desk.zoho.com/portal/montanastatelibrary/community/topic/montana-state-library-statement-on-reopening-4-30-20 [desk.zoho.com]


There is a list of questions for directors, library boards, and staff to consider within that statement. The main change a move to phase 2 brings is more than 10 people can gather as long as physical distancing is maintained. If people can safely remain at least 6 feet apart, more people can enter the library. You may also be able to offer limited in-person programming. This is only if you can do so safely. It’s fine to wait until phase 3 if you are unable to keep staff and members of the public safe. We are happy to talk through this issue with you if you would like to brainstorm how to best offer programming. Your local public health official remains another great resource in figuring out how to safely re-open and/or offer various library services.

 

I know many libraries have expressed some concerns about out-of-state visitors. The Governor addressed this in his presentation. He talked about the National Guard continuing to screen visitors at airports. There will be a media campaign encouraging safe practices. The state is working with local health officials to increase testing at communities that receive a lot of visitors. They will have surveillance testing to monitor for any spikes and will increase capacity to test visitors and front-line workers. The state is also working to ensure that these communities have the supplies they need to stay safe.

 

I hope this helps. COVID-19 has impacted communities in Montana in a wide variety of ways. If you have any questions about your situation please don’t hesitate to contact a State Library staff member. We are happy to talk through your local situation and try to find a solution that works for your library and your community.

 

-Take care,

Tracy