Child-Friendly Video Helps Soften, Explain Library's Different Look
Adults understand why the Springfield-Greene County Libraries looked different as the branches reopened to the public on May 26. They closed in March due to the coronavirus. But children may feel nervous, or even scared, to see their favorite librarian wearing a face mask and having no toys in the children’s departments.
That’s why a team of librarians created a gentle “welcome back” video on the library’s YouTube channel – SpringfieldGreene – that families can share with children before they return to the library. The short, upbeat video explains the changes they will experience when they visit.
There are images of paper footprints on walkways to encourage social distancing, librarians wearing face masks, and desks where computers and chairs have been removed. A female librarian’s voice narrates: “Hello! The grown-ups in your family may have told you that the library is reopening and that you might be visiting soon. We are so excited to welcome you back! There are a few things that will be a little different though and we thought you would like to see them before you come in…”
The narrator later explains that children will see a lot of library staff wearing masks, but that “We promise we’re smiling under there! Masks help us not breathe in germs and it keeps other people from breathing any germs we might have. We can have germs even if we aren’t sick. Even though we look different, it is still us. And we are still happy to see you!...”
She explains physical distancing simply. “When you look for books, try to stay away from other kids and grownups. Your grown-up might have a special phrase they say like, ‘red light!’ to remind you…”
Toys, crayons and puzzles have been removed from the branches, and children won’t be able to check out toys as usual. “This might make you sad. It makes us sad too! These are things that are hard to keep clean and right now it is important that we don’t spread germs. Hopefully we will be able to play again soon!”
The librarian reminds children that storytimes are canceled for now, but they can see a new one on Facebook Live at 10 a.m. every Tuesday, and many are aired on the Kids page, thelibrary.org/kids.
She concludes with a message for all visitors: “There are lots of things that might be different about the library for a while, but they are all to keep everyone healthy. We are really glad we are going to see you again, welcome back!”
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