50% capacity restrictions lifted, social distancing recommendations still in place
Governor Reynolds signed a new proclamation, effective at 8:00 AM on Friday, June 12, 2020, further easing restrictions on businesses and other organizations in Iowa. This new proclamation lifts the limit of 50% capacity previously imposed, but does continue to stipulate that libraries must continue to take reasonable measures to ensure social distancing of employees and patrons and increased hygiene practices. Libraries can refer to the entire proclamation linked above, but the specific portion for libraries states:
A museum, aquarium, zoo, library, indoor playground, children’s play center, swimming pool, bingo hall, bowling alley, pool hall, arcade, amusement park, campground, tanning facility, massage therapy establishment, tattoo establishment, or a retail establishment that was previously ordered to be closed statewide and then only in certain counties under section 5, paragraph I, of the Proclamation of Disaster Emergency issued on April 27, 2020, may reopen or remain open, but only to the extent that the facility takes reasonable measures under the circumstances of each establishment to ensure social distancing of employees and patrons, increased hygiene practices, and other public health measures to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 consistent with Guidance issued by the Iowa Department of Public Health.
The State Library once again offers the following resources for libraries as they develop plans to re-open to the public. District consultants are also available to provide assistance and support as libraries develop their plans. Please do not hesitate to reach out to them.
Obtaining PPE and Disinfectant/Hand Sanitizer
- Check with local government officials for contracts, etc.
- The State of Iowa has master agreements with several vendors that offer PPE and sanitizing products that libraries are able to use:
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