Second COVID-19 Case of Library Staffer Confirmed; No Public Involved
September 15, 2020 — Springfield-Greene County Library District administrators learned Monday, Sept. 14, that a part-time Library Center employee tested positive for COVID-19 and is under quarantine at home. The individual was tested Sunday, Sept. 13, and received the test results Monday. This is the second case of COVID-19 of a library employee and is not connected to the first one, which occurred at the Library Station.
The individual last worked at the library on Thursday, Sept. 10, while wearing a mask. They had no contact with the public and interacted with only one coworker who has not reported symptoms but is in quarantine. No other employees at that branch have reported symptoms.
Library coworkers were advised on appropriate protocol based on the amount of contact they had. Library officials said they understand there is low risk to other staff and patrons. At this time, there are no plans to close part or all of the Library Center, located at 4653 S. Campbell Ave. Along with routine, ongoing cleaning at the library, the individual’s work area and department underwent additional professional cleaning.
All staff at the Library Center and the other nine library branches are required to wear masks, observe social distancing and take and record their temperatures upon clocking in to work. All patrons visiting the 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.