Kansas City Public Library temporarily closes all locations amid coronavirus outbreak
The Kansas City Public Library temporarily closed its 10 locations Sunday evening as officials continue to monitor the new coronavirus outbreak.
Locations closed at 5 p.m. Sunday, a decision the library called “a difficult one.”
“But we feel that this is the responsible thing to do at this time, safeguarding the health of patrons, employees and the community by working to contain the virus’ spread through recommended social distancing,” library officials said in a statement.
As part of the closings, group activities and events were suspended until at least March 31.
Patrons were asked to not return books through drop boxes, even if they are due. The library does not charge late fees. Holds will be maintained until the library reopens, officials said.
Digital resources, such as e-books, can still be accessed on the library’s website.
Five people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Missouri, none of them in Kansas City. Eight people, including five in Johnson County, have tested positive in Kansas.
