Library Staffer Tests Positive for COVID-19
August 31, 2020 — Springfield-Greene County Library District administrators learned on Monday, Aug. 31, that a Library Station employee tested positive for COVID-19 and is under quarantine. The individual received the test results on Aug. 31.
The employee has routine contact with the public. The individual last worked at the library on Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 1-7 p.m. while wearing a mask, and reported having symptoms beginning the next day.
All library district employees were notified on Aug. 31, including coworkers at the Library Station who came in contact with the individual in the days before Aug. 25. No other employees at that branch have reported symptoms. Library Station coworkers were advised on appropriate protocol based on the amount of contact they had. Springfield-Greene County Health Department contact tracers planned to reach out in the coming days to staff who may have been in direct contact with the individual.
Library officials said they understand there is low risk to other staff and patrons. At this time, they have no plans to close part or all of the Library Station, located at 2535 N. Kansas Expressway.
All staff at the Library Station and at all nine other branches are required to wear masks, observe social distancing and take and record their temperatures upon clocking in to work. All patrons visiting all 10 libraries are required to wear masks, unless excused under the City of Springfield’s rule, and follow the other safety measures to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.
Library staff and a day porter regularly wipe down surfaces and high-traffic areas, and will continue to do so.