COVID-19 Response

• The Pawling Library will remain open to the public during its normal hours of operation.

• Yesterday, Dutchess County recommended that public gatherings be suspended through the end of April. In keeping with the county’s recommendation, the Pawling Library has cancelled all programs and events through the end of April.

• We ask that library users exercise their best judgment in using the library. Please do not come into the library building if you are unwell. When you are in the library, please observe the best practices recommended by the World Health Organization. (Better idea: observe these practices at all times!) In consideration of other library users, please cover your nose and mouth when sneezing, wash your hands frequently, and wipe the keyboard and mouse after using any public computers.

• • The accumulation of overdue fines will be suspended for the next thirty days, so that people who observe quarantines and social distancing will not be punished for avoiding places of public accommodation. Nonetheless, we encourage all library users to return items to the library in a timely manner. Please remember that even when the library is closed, items can be deposited in the library’s two bookdrops: one in front of the library building and the other at the Holmes Whaley Lake Civic Association.

• The library will continue to monitor the recommendations of public health specialists and elected officials. If we need to alter our approach in the light of future information, updates will be posted to the library’s homepage and distributed via our Facebook and Twitter accounts.