Little Free Libraries during the Coronavirus Pandemic

News from the National Website

On March 30, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shared that routine cleaning and disinfection of hard, nonporous surfaces that are frequently touched is key. At your Little Free Library, these would include the handle and other surfaces touched by library visitors.

Dr. David Berendes in a presentation hosted by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, recommends cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces. He said “The good news is that this virus is extremely susceptible to many of the typical disinfectants that you’re already probably using.” Paper-based materials, like books, are not as much of a concern for being a transmission route.

Recently, the CDC noted that the virus spreads easily between people, but not from touching surfaces. The CDC advises that the best way to protect yourself—and others—is to maintain a distance of six feet, wash your hands often, and routinely clean high-touch surfaces. Things you are hopefully already doing.

A sign seen on one Ballard Little Free Library says:
“Please also follow these rules at your Little Free Library:
If you are sick, don’t share books in your library until you are symptom-free.
If your neighbors are sick, they should not come to your library.
Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer every time you use your library.
Do not gather with others at your Little Free Library. Social distancing is critical to flattening the curve and slowing the spread of the coronavirus.”