Library staff keeping cleanliness in mind

One resource that has remained open to the public this summer despite numerous businesses and attractions being closed is the Clovis-Carver Public Library.

Closed from March 18, the library was able to reopen its doors on May 18 with regular hours.

"I believe we were one of the first libraries to reopen," said Margaret Hinche, library director, "but we did it under very strict guidelines and under my boss, the city manager. The city assistant manager came in and made sure that we were going to follow guidelines and they wanted a whole detailed plan, so we gave them that."

"I think libraries are an essential resource. It gives people access to information who don't readily have it available to them, through the use of our computer systems, through the use of our various forms of print mediums, and the access to books," said Justin Howalt, Clovis' city manager. "Having access to a public library is definitely essential to all of our citizens."

The library has elements in place to help ensure the safety of patrons, including signs posted throughout the facilities asking people to wear masks, sneeze guards, and limiting time browsing books and using computers to an hour.

Books that are checked out and returned follow a disinfecting and quarantining process of their own.

"We quarantine our books for three to four to five days, so when they are brought in from the book dropoff they are checked in and put in a secure place," Hinche said.