An Open Letter to Other Library Directors | Opinion

by Royce Kitts
Director
Liberal Memorial Library
Liberal, Kansas

https://www.libraryjournal.com/?detailStory=An-Open-Letter-to-Other-Library-Directors-Opinion-covid-19&fbclid=IwAR35mEzP9u9TPfmMDSkEsPYBq4FQwzfe6S0G6Jew9-Va9ol41WACqdCtN-k

Extract:

“As I explained to my library board, I will not reopen the library until I can ensure the health and safety of our staff. I will not reopen the library just because the governor cancels the stay at home order. We will be slow and deliberate, because for the first time in my 20 years of being a librarian, the decisions I make mean the life or death of my employees. (Yes. I said that last part. A bit of hyperbole, but honestly, not that much.) Safety will be the top priority. As I explained, the very thing we strive to achieve—engaging the community and filling up the library—is exactly what makes our library vulnerable. I will say that I am glad they back me on this. I feel better for my people, and about the months ahead.”