Updated 3/1/2022

Dear Library Lovers,

As of March 1, 2022 masks are recommended but not required. 

The Burnham Library’s decision was determined by the recent Region 12 Board of Education approval that allows the superintendent to permit mask choice while reserving the right to require masks in the future if health conditions deteriorate. Pending no spike in COVID infections, as of March 1st, masks are optional but are appreciated.

As we provide services for all ages, we request that you continue to be mindful of certain protocols to protect everyone in our community.

Safety Protocols

• Please do not enter the building if you have been exposed to someone who has, or is suspected of having COVID or not feeling well, or if you are feeling ill.
• Please practice social distancing.
• Use sanitizers placed throughout the building.

Library Services

• The Susie Beris, MD Youth Learning Center is open and the train table and select toys are available for play!
• There is limited public computer access to promote social distancing.
• Multiple distanced work areas are available; ask for locations at the circulation desk.
• Onsite programming has resumed for all ages — masks are optional or per the presenter’s preference.
• After-hour meeting space reservations have resumed.
• Visit our Events page for a calendar of programming for all ages.
• In-person Tech Tutoring has resumed. Email cfisher@burnhamlibrary.org for an appointment.

Virtual Services and Curbside Pick-up

• Need a library card? Apply ONLINE!
• Please take advantage of our Digital Branch which offers Bridgewater residents downloadable digital materials, such as eBooks, eAudio, streaming videos, and more. All you need is a valid library card.
• Contactless Curbside Pick-up is still available! Request items and schedule a pick-up via our library catalog, by phone, or by email staff@burnhamlibrary.org
• Parents and Caregivers let us do the browsing for you! Request a themed book-bundle bag by emailing your request at staff@burnhamlibrary.org
• Be our Guest! Public WIFI is available 24/7.

Book Drop, Returns, and Book Donations:

• The indoor book drop has reopened AND the outdoor book drop will remain open 24/7.
• The outdoor book drop will be checked at opening each day. Items will be discharged and backdated from a patron account when removed from the outdoor book drop.
• Please call the library or email jkallay@burnhamlibrary.org to discuss book donations.

860-354-6937

Jean Kallay, Library Director jkallay@burnhamlibrary.org

Chris Fisher, Assistant Director cfisher@burnhamlibrary.org

Warmest,

Jean Kallay, Library Director

Chris Fisher, Assistant Director

 

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We ask you to follow the recommendations of the CDC, which include washing your hands frequently.  For more information, you can read the below links.

Let’s Talk Vaccines!

VaccineFinder –  VaccineFinder is a free, online service where users can search for locations that offer vaccinations. We work with partners such as clinics, pharmacies, and health departments to provide accurate and up-to-date information about vaccination services.

Dr. B The Standby List for COVID-19 Vaccine – Dr. B can connect you with local providers with extra doses using a standby system.

About the Three COVID-19 Vaccines – From the Public Health Communication Collaborative. Downloadable graphics and messaging that describe the available COVID-19 vaccines, emphasizing the safety and effectiveness of all vaccines the FDA has approved.

Why Get It, And What Happens Next – From the Public Health Communication Collaborative Downloadable graphics to promote factual information about the COVID vaccines. The first graphic explains why it’s important to be vaccinated and focuses on safety, and the second explains what people should do after getting vaccinated.

The Conversation: Between Us, About Us – is a campaign to provide Black communities with credible information about the COVID-19 vaccines from KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) and the Black Coalition Against COVID (BCAC).

COVID-19 Informational Resources

CDC COVID-19 Community Levels – a new tool to help communities decide what prevention steps to take based on the latest data. Levels can be low, medium, or high and are determined by looking at hospital beds being used, hospital admissions, and the total number of new COVID-19 cases in an area. Take precautions to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 based on the COVID-19 Community Level in your area. 

CT COVID-19 Response Page – Phases and eligibility for vaccine distribution.

AA Intergroup Meetings

Bridgewater Town Hall – updated information from our First Selectman, TOPS program and more …

COVID Act Now – Gathers and presents data from a number of reputable sources for US states and counties, using color graphics and simplified language.

The National Institute For Health

CDC’s Guide to Coronavirus

CT Governor Ned Lamont’s Emergency Orders

CT Recovers

Confirmed Cases in Connecticut

CDC’s Guide for Employers

CDC’s Recommendations For Cleaning and Disinfecting 

CDC’s Guidelines for Schools Workplaces and Community Gatherings

EPA List of Disinfectants for Use Against COVID-19

Executive Order on Preventing Hoarding and Medical Resources

First Draft Coronavirus Resources

Google Fact Check Tools for COVID-19

John Hopkins Coronavirus COVID-19 Map and Dashboard

NIH – News in Health – Face masks and COVID-19

PBS Parents – How you and your kids can distress during Coronavirus

Quarantine vs Isolation as defined by the CDC

Talking to Kids About Coronavirus

TaskandPurpose.com – Veterans benefits and financial help during COVID19

UN Coronavirus 

US Small Business Administration – Small business guidance and loan resources

US.GOV – What to expect from passports and international travel

USA Coronavirus Page

World Health Organization (WHO) 

WHO Myth busters

To Bridgewater Citizens,

In response to the current health emergency, Bridgewater is forming the “Town Outreach Program” (TOP).

We plan to assist our older or vulnerable residents who may contract the novel Coronavirus known as COVID-19.

To be ready for any eventuality, the Town is asking that people call us at 860-354-2731 to register for help if it becomes necessary. There will be either a person or an answering machine on this line.

Bridgewater will create a database of your name(s), addresses, phone numbers and your current emergency contact person or family members. This will be a voluntary and confidential registry only for use in case of this emergency. Possible requests could include assistance with food, supplies, transportation or other situations. This TOP program will seek volunteers to help those in need. Our team includes town officials, the Emergency Management Director, a Registered Nurse and a Physician.

Most people are already aware of the seriousness of the current pandemic and the likelihood of rapid spreading. Each one of us need to practice “social distancing,” especially if you are over 60 or have serious health issues. If you get COVID-19 symptoms, such as dry cough and fever, you need to contact your health provider first and self-quarantine to avoid contact with others. Reliable sources of information can be found on the Center for Disease Control website: www.cdc.gov or the World Health Organization at: www.who.org

Town offices will remain open for only priority and necessary business starting on Monday, March 16th. The Senior Center will also be closed starting on Monday.  This is how a small town like Bridgewater can help take of our own citizens in a time of need.

I strongly recommend that part of your preparations include your registration in our TOP initiative by calling 860-354-2731 in the next few days, so people can be ready to help if needed. Volunteers are also needed. Please leave your name and phone number clearly and we will return your call.  You may also communicate via email to awagner@bridgewater-ct.gov .

Curtis S. Read
First Selectman
Bridgewater, CT
(860) 354-5250 (w)
(203) 470-2893 (m)