McKean County’s public libraries are working together on virtual services and programs to keep the community connected and informed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our new motto is stay safe, stay home and let us bring the library to you!” read a release from the five librarians — Lacey Love at Bradford Area Public Library, Mary Grace Collier-Kisler of S.W. Smith Memorial Public Library in Port Allegany, Lori Rounsville at Hamlin Memorial Library in Smethport, Mark Torrey at Mount Jewett Memorial Library and Patty Kunicki at Friends Memorial Library in Kane.
“Our buildings are closed to the public, but the free WiFi is on,” the release from the librarians read. “We are calling it ‘drive-in’ WiFi! Patrons are welcome to use the WiFi via their vehicles in the parking lot or by chilling on the library’s outdoor furniture.”
The libraries participate in Seneca Library District’s Overdrive service for eBooks and audiobooks.
“Patrons in McKean County who do not currently have a library account can apply for an instant Virtual Library Card using their mobile phone number,” the release read. “Virtual Library Cards grant the patron free access to e-Books and audio books on OverDrive until June 30, 2020.”
Patrons without a library card can apply for an instant e-Card on PowerLibrary, Pennsylvania’s Electronic Library.
“PowerLibrary gives patrons free access to over 30 databases with information on topics in education, entertainment, health and wellness, job searches, and even auto repair,” the release read.
And proving that it isn’t just the library that makes things fun, the librarians are using the internet to bring the fun into homes across the region.
“We are hosting our monthly meetings for our library boards, book clubs, and other groups online,” the release read. “The Seneca Library District subscribes to the BlueJeans virtual meeting platform and we also have G Suite for Nonprofits which allows us the opportunity to use Google Hangouts Meet for virtual meetings.
“We have created pages on our websites with directions, direct links, and tutorials on how to access our mobile and free e-resources such as Evolve, PowerLibrary Network, PowerKids, Power Teens, BookFlix, OverDrive, Ask Here PA, and 24/7 Librarian where patrons can chat with a real PA librarian on duty — including our own Lori Rounsville from Hamlin Memorial Library,” the release stated.
Each library’s Facebook page will contain updates, news and links to resources including vendors and companies that are releasing their products for free to the public during the pandemic.
“Examples include digital escape rooms, YMCA360 fitness videos, TumbleBooks, Storyline Online, and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra,” the release read. “The most popular virtual event? Story Time Online! McKean County library directors and youth service librarians are keeping in touch with our youngest patrons (and a few older fans) by recording a video of a story read aloud or hosting a virtual Story Hour complete with stories, crafts and games.”
The librarians are staying in touch with school districts as well, and are sharing free educational resources for teachers, students, and parents that we own or are shared through community partners and national vendors.
“We are also accepting e-Book requests from teachers and students who need a title for class. We are cross-posting our school district’s announcements concerning the COVID-19 closure and especially those that pertain to free lunch distribution days and times,” the release stated.
They are staying in touch with local media to get the word out on the latest information, too.
And in that true small-town fashion, the librarians are reaching out to some of their vulnerable patrons, too.
“We have also personally called some of our patrons by phone to check-in with them. These are patrons who we know live alone and do not have a local support network. We are reaching out to see if they are in good health, need supplies, or need access to resources,” the release read.
The libraries are also sharing information on food, housing, health and wellness resources, along with domestic violence resources, live AA meeting and childcare.
The release concluded with a message from the library directors: “It is the mission of the McKean County libraries to keep our county residents informed, engaged and safe during this national crisis. If there is more we can do for our communities, please contact any one of us for assistance. We appreciate your continued support of the libraries in McKean County.”
