Coronavirus Crisis Update from the New Glarus Library Board
The New Glarus Library Board understands that right now, nothing feels normal. We want to provide two library updates – services that remain available through the library, and on the capital campaign for a new library.
Library Operations
The library’s primary focus is on serving the community. While Gov. Evers’ Stay at Home order remains in effect, the library continues to provide access to digital e-books, audiobooks and databases, suggestions for useful websites and services, digital programs for children, and technology support by telephone for anyone who is struggling with the digital tools that are now necessary to stay connected to work, friends, and family. Free WiFi remains accessible from most parking spaces surrounding Village Hall, for those with portable devices. Unfortunately, the order means that the building is closed and our physical collection cannot circulate.
With an eye toward bringing people together safely, raising money toward local medical personnel and food pantries and supporting local businesses, staff are working with the Friends of the Library group to host a virtual Trivia Night on April 18th, at 8:00 p.m. See the library website for more details.
The library staff eagerly await the day the building can reopen, to provide the community with much-needed access to computers, help navigating unemployment and job search resources, printing and faxing services, free community programs like toddler storytimes and book club discussions, and, of course, loaning out books, DVDs and other resources.
Capital Campaign
Due to all the uncertainty caused by the coronavirus crisis, the New Glarus Library Board is temporarily suspending all in-person events and fundraising for the capital campaign for the new library. Targeted work on the project will continue where it is safe, for example the organizational and grant-related fundraising efforts. The fundraising target date of October 2020 will be extended and the project timeline will be re-evaluated as the situation develops.
“We want to assure everyone - particularly the donors and volunteers who have given so much - that this project will be moving forward,” says Linda Hiland, President of the Library Board. “We hope project activities will resume shortly. In the meantime, we won’t be adding pressure to people who need their time and dollars for their families and immediate needs within the community.”
For more information about the library, visit newglaruspubliclibrary.org or leave a message with your questions at (608) 527-2003.
Stay safe and healthy.