Greetings.

We live in interesting times, to say the least.  The spread of the coronavirus infectious disease strand 19, COVID-19 for short, and also known as the coronavirus, around the world has impacted every aspect of our lives on this interconnected planet.  What started in a Chinese providence has come to the shores of West Michigan.  I know, as a student of history, how important it is to have information when disease outbreaks occur.  I have been keeping up-to-date as much as I can so that I can make informed decisions regarding the Library.

My concern during this pandemic has been your safety.  The CDC and Michigan Department of Health and Human Resources (MDHHR) recommends avoiding large gatherings.  Shortly before I wrote this message, Governor Whitmore signed an executive order prohibiting any non-essential gathering of 250 people or more.  In consideration of the impact of even a small gathering of people on the ability of COVID-19 to spread and of our more vulnerable patrons, 

Fruitport District Library will be closed to the public from Saturday, March 14, through Saturday, April 4 but will offer curbside car pick-up service. If there is a specific book you would like or you have a hold to pick up, please call before you come, call again with your library card ready when you arrive, and then we will place them in a crate outside the front doors for you. Staff will still be available to answer questions over the phone. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

We are taking necessary precautions as recommended by the CDC and MDHHR to the utmost of our ability.  You will notice that we do a lot of wiping, cleaning, and hand-sanitizing.  We welcome you to participate with us in keeping COVID-19 and other contagious illnesses out of our library building by refraining from touching your face, and using the hand sanitizer as it is available.  If you are sick with any contagious illness, please refrain from returning your materials until at least three days after your symptoms subside.  Instead, please call us; and we will work with you to the utmost of our ability.

We wish you the best in this troubling time.  Keep up-to-date on information.  Accurate information is the one of the best panaceas for any outbreak.

With Regards,

Adam DeWitt,

Library Director