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While we are currently closed to the public to prevent or slow the spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), the Alaska State Library is continuing to answer your reference questions by phone and email:

Libraries and COVID-19

A place for Alaska library staff and their communities to find resources and support

What is the closure status of Alaska's libraries?

As of May 8, 2020, Libraries MAY reopen in accordance with Health Mandate 16, Attachment O – Libraries, Museums, and Archives (PDF) and guidance from their local government. When and how libraries open is under local control.  

See the State of Alaska Coronavirus page for all current Health Mandates and Health Alerts.

Planning for reopening your library

Libraries may now open while taking precautions outlined in Health Mandate 16, attachment O. Many libraries will reopen in stages. We've gathered some materials to help libraries in their plans to reopen. 

General Reopening Resources

Alaska Specific Reopening Resources

Working safely and remotely

Building Your Skills Online

Status of Statewide Library Services

  • #800 Reference ILL – Functioning normal hours, though would be much better to use email of Apl800@muni.org than the #800 number.
  • Alaska Digital Library – Functioning normally. eBooks and audiobooks, powered by OverDrive 
  • Alaska Library Network – Functioning normally. Strengthening libraries through effective collaboration  
  • Alaska Mail Services – Functioning normally. Alaska Mail Services offers a full complement of library services by mail and online to Alaska residents living remotely, contact us to apply.
  • Online With Libraries (OWL) - Functioning. - Videoconferencing is operational with limits on simultaneous videoconferences.
  • Ready to Read Alaska – LIMITED service. Book kits unavailable as long as the Anchorage Public Library closed. Limited trainings available on RRAK YouTube channel
  • Talking Book Center – Functioning with possible delays -The Alaska Talking Book Center (TBC) continues to process applications from staff working off site. Our Utah partners continue to send out cartridges and provide reader's advisory, but this is a great time to consider using downloadable audio books through BARD.  Contact blind@utah.gov or 1-800-453-4293 to sign up! 

Virtual LAM Events & Free Video Programming for Libraries

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