The Kansas City Public Library announced Sunday, March 15, that they will be temporarily closing their ten locations across the city beginning Monday, March 16.

The amount of time they will remain closed is unknown.

Due to the rapid spread of COVID-19, several events have been canceled and organizations have shut their doors to prevent mass infection throughout the city.

The Library stated in a recent press release that while the decision was a difficult one to make, “we feel this is the responsible thing to do at this time. Institutional closings are inevitable, and the longer we delay, the less benefit is derived. We hope that this decision – and similar action being taken by other institutions, agencies, and organizations – will maximize the benefits of recommended social distancing.”

Library leadership will be monitoring and assessing the situation to determine when they are able to reopen.

Patrons will still be able to access all digital content, including ebooks, digital audiobooks, music, movies and television, magazines, newspapers, comic books, research databases, online learning, and homework help.

Patrons are also urged to NOT return books and other materials via the outside drop boxes while they are closed, even if the items are due.

The Library went fine-free July 1, 2019, so there will be no penalties for any item that is not returned on time.

According to a Library spokesperson, for Library employees who will not be working during the closure, including part-time employees, it is Library policy that they will continue to be paid during the closure.

If you are interested in obtaining a library card, ecards are available and patrons will gain immediate access to the Library’s digital collection.

Sign up here.

If you already have a Library card, you have an account and can log into your account using your card number and pin.

For more information, visit kclibrary.org.

For more information on COVID-19, please visit the CDC’s website.