Decorah Public Library has cancelled or postponed all programs for a minimum of 30 days beginning March 16.

Library Director Kristin Torresdal said “Our mission centers on serving the community; we have determined that the most important service we can render at this time is to limit group activities. It is our hope that by discontinuing programming in the short term, we can do our part to slow the spread of germs and thereby help protect our most vulnerable community members.”

In a memo sent to all libraries on Friday March 13, the State Library of Iowa recommended that libraries cancel or postpone programs; make hand sanitizer available to patrons; share information from reputable sources; step up disinfection for library surfaces; and remove toys, Legos, puzzles, and games from children’s areas. At Decorah Public Library, these steps are being taken, among others. The Library is monitoring the COVID-19 Coronavirus situation via Winneshiek County Public Health, the Iowa Department of Public Health, the CDC, and library-specific resources at the state and national level.

“Our Board of Trustees and our library staff are committed to maintaining our regular open hours and services until the City- in conjunction with local Public Health officials- determines that it is no longer in everyone’s best interest to do so. We respectfully request that individuals experiencing symptoms of illness refrain from visiting our facility. Library staff have been instructed to extend checkout periods and/or remove fines for those who are unable to use the library due to illness or social distancing measures,” Torresdal said.

When programming resumes, that information will be made available on the library’s website, social media, and in local media outlets. Contact the library at 563-382-3717 with questions.