Berntsen Library Blog

Library in the Time of Coronavirus

Can you believe summer is over? We know this year has been totally different from anything we've seen before. We didn't know if we'd get to have students back with us this fall at first. But we've been hard at work making the library space as safe as we can for your return! It's not going to look the same, but we promise to give you access to the same great resources to help make this year the best it can be. We will do our best to help you understand the new protocols and expectations, but when in doubt you can always find current information on TheROCK. On your homepage at the top left under COVID-19, just click on "Updates and Information."

Here are some things that have changed at the library.

Spaced Out

We have pared down all of the seating in the building to comply with social distancing protocols, including computer terminals, tables, study carrels, and soft seating areas. Because of this protocol, all Study Rooms will have capacity limited to two people. This ensures that you never have to second guess whether you're a safe distance from others, and we hope it won't make finding a seat too hard. We ask that you refrain from moving the seating around, as we have measured carefully to determine the current placements.

Something Between Us

We have installed clear shields in front of the circulation and reference desks so that we can better serve you face-to-face. In the photo to the right, the shield is outlined in red. At the circulation desk, the shields are most effective if you approach at the center of the desk and pass items underneath through the designated opening. At the reference desk, the shield will come in handy when in-person reference help is beneficial to you. And as you wait your turn at either desk, please stay 6' behind the person in front of you. 

Clean Conscience

Spaced around the entire building you will find disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, and other cleaning supplies. These are here for YOU to use! Our facilities staff are hard at work cleaning each day. In addition, they suggest that we wipe down work surfaces before and after use. If we each take charge of the places we’ve used, it will help every library patron rest easy with a "clean conscience." And, as always, don't forget to practice good hand hygiene and responsibly dispose of any trash! Please wash or disinfect your hands before and after interacting with library resources and spaces.

Let's Chat

Our reference librarians are always at your service, and now more than ever we encourage you to choose the help format that works best for you. We've always had an online chat feature, but this year it's new and improved. Find it popping up on the right side of your screen when you visit our homepage. You can also access this chat via text! Just send a test message from your phone to 651-362-4288. You can also reach out via phone call or email. If you're in the building, check out the sign at the reference desk to see who's online and how to reach them. From off campus or in your dorm, send a chat or email unwlibrary@unwsp.edu. 

Thanks for Masking

As with all of campus, masks or face coverings are required to be worn in the library. While not ideal in some ways, wearing a mask is the best way to keep everyone safe, and we are very grateful for your willingness to put others first. We have disposable masks available at the circulation desk if you find yourself without one, so don't hesitate to ask. You are able to eat and drink at the library except in the lower level classrooms. We ask that you wear your face covering until you eat or drink, then replace it as soon as you are finished. The library staff and student workers can't wait to see the creative patterns and styles of the masks you put on!

We are so excited to dive into helping our students through this unique academic year. Hope to see you soon!