NCLS Reopening Guide: REOPENING

Does a mask policy violate the ADA? What should you do if an employee tests positive for COVID-19? How should the library respond to symptomatic patrons? Ask the Lawyer addresses these questions and more.

Recent legal guidance for NYS libraries regarding COVID-19 related topics. Ask The Lawyer is provided by WNYLRC.

NCLS recommends reopening in stages to mitigate potential health risks due to COVID-19. Below is a sample timeline of a staged reopening plan that considers the safety of both staff, patrons, and the community at large. Visit our website for past guidance regarding COVID-19.

• Service Level 1: Complete Building Closure
• Service Level 2: Partial Building Closure
• Service Level 3: Minimal In-Person Service
• Service Level 4: Partial Public Access
• Service Level 5: Moderate Public Access
• Service Level 6: Full Service Restored

How will we know what the state requires to reopen?

 NY Forward Business Reopening Safety Template (Important: Each re-opening business must develop a written Safety Plan outlining how its workplace will prevent the spread of COVID-19. You cannot legally reopen with completing this.)
 Guidelines
 Interim Guidance for Curbside and In-Store Pickup

• New York Forward Guide to Reopening
• New York Forward Business Reopening Lookup Tool
• New York Forward FAQ
• NYS Regional Monitoring Dashboard

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and Other EEO Laws