[Libs-Or] Providing computer support during COVID

[DAVID Emily]

Hi Jim,

We too are allowing 45 min sessions with the typical COVID protocols that others have mentioned. A couple of things we purchased that we have found helpful:

  *   the "shower cap"? type covers for the keyboards. They are universal and work well because all of our public computer keyboards are not the same. We wipe them down and then quarantine them after use for three days. We have three boxes labeled Mon/TH, Tu/Fri, Wed/ Sat (we are closed on Sun)
  *   We point retractable pointers that staff can use to point things out on the screen or keyboard. They are about 4ft I think. These have been helpful. If someone does need to get closer to the screen, we ask the patron to step back behind the chair so staff can get a closer look.

Good Luck!

Emily David  (she/her/hers)
Library and Museum Director
Springfield Public Library
225 5th Street
Springfield, OR 97477
541-726-2235
wheremindsgrow.org
Springfield-Museum.com?
________________________________
From: Libs-Or <libs-or-bounces at omls.oregon.gov> on behalf of Jim Jatkevicius <jimj at wccls.org>
Sent: Friday, October 30, 2020 3:04 PM
To: libs-or at omls.oregon.gov
Subject: [Libs-Or] Providing computer support during COVID

Hello,

We are currently exploring approaches to providing public computer access to patrons and we are seeking the wisdom of libraries currently doing so in a restricted COVID-19 environment.

How are you managing hands-on support for patrons with their computer sessions? Are you simply maintaining standard distancing precautions, installing shields, and enforcing masking protocols? Are staff working hands-on with patrons when necessary?  Are you remoting in and taking over patron computers with a software solution? Have you developed other procedures you have found effective?

Any insights you can share would be most helpful.

Thank you.

Jim Jatkevicius (pronounce<https://namedrop.io/jimjatkevicius>) , Library Services Supervisor - Reference
Forest Grove City Library
Forest Grove, OR 97116
jimj at wccls.org<mailto:jimj at wccls.org>
503 992-3280

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