Library Board Votes to Suspend Operations Temporarily

at Neosho and Seneca Libraries

Neosho, Mo. — The Neosho Newton County Library Board voted today at its regularly scheduled meeting to suspend operations temporarily at the Neosho and Seneca libraries to assist in preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus.

            While there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Newton County to date, the board made the decision out of an abundance of caution after reviewing recommendations from Pres. Donald Trump’s task force, Gov. Mike Parson’s task force, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Missouri Library Association.

            The library closed at 4 p.m. today and will remain closed for the immediate future. The board will be assessing the situation on a weekly basis to determine when the virus threat eases up and it will be safe to reopen.

            “The decision was difficult to make,” said Library Director Carrie Cline. “We care deeply about being available for our community members, recognizing that the library and its services are invaluable. However, we felt this is the responsible thing to do at this time.”

            Meanwhile, the library staff is taking steps to help ease the effects of the library’s closing on its patrons.

• The Wi-Fi will remain on 24 hours a day so that those who don’t have access to the Internet at home can access Wi-Fi from the parking lot.
• A member of the staff will empty the book drop boxes daily so if you have books to return, please drop them in one of the two drop boxes. However, all fines and fees will be waived so do not worry about past-due books if you cannot immediately get them back to the library.
• Patrons can still access the Missouri Libraries2Go website at https://molib2go.overdrive.com/ using your library card number. This will allow you to access eBooks, eMagazines and audio books, as well as other online databases with your electronic devices.
• Staff will continue to order and process new titles of both books and DVDs, so anticipate a whole new selection of items once the library reopens.

            Please check the library’s Facebook page for updates and further information, including when the library will reopen for business.

            The mission of the Neosho/Newton County Library is to maintain and improve the quality of life for all citizens by providing access to materials, resources and technology that contributes to the knowledge, enrichment and enjoyment of the community.