LEONARDTOWN, Md. – The Leonardtown Branch of St. Mary’s County Library is closed until September 9 because two employees tested positive for the coronavirus this week. We have a near 100% vaccination rate at this library but “breakthrough” cases have occurred.
Transmission did not occur in the library; these were “at home” situations. We believe that only a portion of our employees may have been subsequently exposed during a lunch break but enough of them that it will be impossible to staff the library.
Staff have always masked both behind the scenes and when working with visitors to the library. Cleaning has been rigorous and HEPA filters are in place. We think that exposure to library visitors is unlikely. We are consulting with the County Health Department in this matter. We think it is best for the health of employees and the public to act with an abundance of caution.
Curbside pickup services and all operations inside the building will be suspended until September 9. Book drops at the branch remain open. No fines will accrue for items returned to Leonardtown during this time.
Our Charlotte Hall and Lexington Park Branches are fully open. Library users may always access content online at https://www.stmalib.org/
We deeply regret any inconvenience and ask for your understanding in a difficult time. Employees will present negative tests before resuming work at this branch on September 9. The branch will be well cleaned in the interim.