Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ramara Public Library has made the "difficult decision to lay off 60% of its staff," said CEO Janet Banfield.
Banfield said four staff members have been temporarily laid off. There is no end date for the layoffs.
"Hopefully staff will be back to work soon if all goes well with the reopening of the province," said Banfield.
Banfield said she appreciated the efforts of staff "who really stepped up to the plate when we had to transition from a bricks and mortar library to an online virtual one almost overnight."
Despite not being physically at the library, staff have been busy.
"They have been doing great work from community care calls, to virtual programs, how-to videos, an online book club, sharing information/resources/ideas via social media and our eNewsletters, and offering new online digital library memberships," said Banfield.
"They hit the ground running and the beneficiaries of their efforts go well beyond our patrons."
Now that more than half of the staff have been laid off, Banfield is asking for patience from patrons.
"We ask library patrons to be patient with responses to emails and need for assistance as we are now functioning with only two team members and will do our very best to continue offering virtual programs and services," she said.
To access the library's online resources, eMagazines, eBooks/audiobooks and their YouTube channel for virtual programs, visit their website. Subscribe to their enewsletter here.
As the Township has closed municipal buildings until schools reopen, you will need to contact the library by email ([email protected] ) or phone: 705-325-5776 or 705-484-0476 should you require assistance.
"Please know that this situation is temporary and the team will be back to serve our community as soon as possible," said Banfield.
