CW MARS CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE
Updated: June 1, 2021
Updated: December 1, 2020
Updated: September 8, 2020
Updated: July 24, 2020
Post Date: Mar 13,2020
UPDATE: LIBRARIES REOPENING PLANS
Our libraries are committed to maintaining essential library services for our users while ensuring the health and safety of our patrons and staff.
Libraries across the Commonwealth are in various stages of reopening. Please check your library's website or call your library for details on what services they are providing: CW MARS Member Libraries
Email notices are being sent for due date reminders, renewal status and overdue items. You can track items checked out to you in My Account.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
To help protect yourself and our most vulnerable populations please:
Wear a cloth face covering/mask. See the latest guidance on mask requirements: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-mask-requirements
If you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms including fever, coughing, shortness of breath please stay home and seek medical care.
Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer that is 60–90% alcohol-based frequently.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
Practice distancing. Try to keep a six-foot distance from other people.
QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT HAVE
How do I know if my public library is offering services to patrons?
Libraries are in various stages of reopening across the state. For the most up-to-date information contact your local library directly. CW MARS Member Libraries
I returned items, why did I get an email that they are overdue?
Overdue email notices are automated to run daily based on the status of items in the system. Because libraries are quarantining all returned items, your returned items may not be checked in from your account until the quarantine period is over. Please allow a few extra days to ensure the items are checked in safely. You can track items still checked out to you in My Account.
I returned items, why are they still listed as checked out in My Account?
You can track items still checked out to you in My Account. For questions about items on your account, contact your local library directly. CW MARS Member Libraries
How do I use curbside services?
Curbside pick-up hours and procedure vary by library. Libraries are using tables, tents, and lobbies for curbside pick up. Some libraries require appointments, others have specific days/times that items can be picked up. The best way to know the process at your library is to contact them directly or visit their website. CW MARS Member Libraries
Is my Library Open?
Libraries are following the current Massachusetts Phase/Step safety guidelines for libraries as well as national and local recommendations and guidelines. For details on what services your library is providing, and hours they are open, contact them directly. CW MARS Member Libraries
Why didn't my checked out items automatically renew?
During the library closures we extended due dates and turned off auto renewal. Auto renewal was turned back on on Thursday July 2nd, 2020. Items due on or after July 2nd will automatically renew if they have renewals remaining. If an item did not renew there may not be any renewals left.
Why aren't I receiving notifications?
During the library closures we temporarily turned off notifications. Email notifications were slowly turned back on. We started sending due date reminder notices on July 2, 2020. Patron library card expiration notices were enabled on August 4, 2020 and overdue notices were enabled on September 2, 2020.
Are there any library resources I can use remotely from home?
Yes! Our libraries provides a wide array of online resources, including e-books, audio books, e-magazines, etc for borrowing on our OverDrive platform, and through the OverDrive Libby app iOS | Android.
Massachusetts statewide databases are available and our libraries also offer other local online resources to their patrons that can be found by visiting their website: CW MARS Member Libraries.
How can I get help with using OverDrive or Libby?
Visit our OverDrive FAQ help pages for answers to frequent questions. You can also call or email your local library for assistance.
What if my items are due? Will I accrue late fees?
You can log into your account and see what you have checked out and if materials can be renewed. Please contact your local library if you have questions or concerns about due dates or fees.
What if my holds are ready for pick up?
You can see the status of holds and checked out materials via My Account. Help with My Account. Contact your local library for details on how to pick up holds: CW MARS Member Libraries.
Can I continue to place holds on materials through the online catalog?
Yes! If you wish to cancel holds for items you no longer need you can do that via My Account.
My library card has expired or is about to expire. How can I renew?
Please contact your local library to renew your library card. You can see the status of your library card by logging into My Account. Note: You should receive an emailed notice 7 days before your card expires, (as long as a valid email address is attached to your account).
I would like to sign up for a library card. How do I do that?
Please contact your local library to register for a library card.
I have questions about the Coronavirus. Who do I ask?
See the resources for Massachusetts listed below.
I have other library related questions. Who do I ask?
Please contact your local library. CW MARS Member Libraries
INFORMATION FROM LOCAL, STATE, AND NATIONAL AGENCIES
CORONAVIRUS CALL CENTERS
Text COVIDMA to 888-111 to receive notifications to your phone.
Call 2-1-1 for real-time COVID-19 information, resources, and referrals in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Residents can call 2-1-1 to learn more about:
COVID-19 prevention, symptoms, and treatment
Information about testing
Guidance for people planning or returning from travel
Callers dialing 2-1-1 will hear an automated menu of options. Callers press 2-6 for coronavirus.
For emotional support with stress or anxiety Call 2-1-1 and choose the “CALL2TALK” option.
Residents can also reach 2-1-1 through a live chat option on the Massachusetts 2-1-1 website.