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Courtesy Xochitl Mora,

(McAllen, Tx)-For the safety of patrons and staff, McAllen Public Library is quarantining all returned items for 72 hours before items will be re-shelved, in accordance with guidelines from the Northeast Document Conservation Center. The NDCC cited a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which shows that the coronavirus will persist on plastic surfaces for up to 72 hours. As an extra precaution, all quarantined materials are wiped with an alcohol-based sanitizer before they are returned to shelves and browsing bins.

“Most MPL books are covered in Mylar or other plastic-based covering, while music CDs, DVDs, and Blu-Ray discs are loaned out in plastic cases,” says McAllen Public Library Director Kate Horan. “We want our patrons to know that our materials have gone through the recommended processing before they are placed back on the shelf for checkout.”

Staff are directed to wear gloves and face covering when emptying return bins. All book carts used to transport or house the quarantined items are thoroughly sanitized as well.

Staff frequently sanitize high touch-points throughout the three facilities with an EPA-approved disinfectant against COVID-19 according to the CDC’s Guidance for Cleaning & Disinfecting Public Space, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes. Patrons are encouraged to use hand sanitizer upon entry and before touching surfaces such as the computer lab keyboard and mouse. Visitors will see floor visuals and other cues for maintaining social distancing. Study rooms may be reserved at all three locations with limited seating to maintain safe distancing.

MPL’s curbside delivery continues to be a popular option for patrons who want quick service without having to leave their vehicle. Find out how to use this service and other MPL service updates at https://www.mcallenlibrary.net/covid-19-updates.