Coronavirus Library News
With thousands of Kansas City children confined to their homes, exercise and early literacy programs are at a premium. Librarian Alli Bernskoetter is tackling the problem on both fronts. Read more about the Library’s yoga storytimes.
Swope Health will offer testing for the coronavirus (COVID-19) at the Library's Trails West Branch on Wednesday, May 6, 2020, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Appointments are not needed, and both drive-throughs and walk-ups will be accommodated.
If you’re a parent or caregiver who’s overwhelmed by the seemingly endless number of events and activities online for kids right now, don’t panic! Your Library is here for you. Our Youth & Family Engagement department is reviewing what’s out there and recommending our favorite new online content.
The world is changing – in so many ways – amid a COVID-19 pandemic that has seen everything from schools to restaurants close as governors across the country issue shelter-in-place orders, requiring residents to stay at home unless travel is absolutely necessary. The Kansas City Public Library has had to adapt, too. But it continues to offer, and in some cases bolster, an array of services that might be more valuable to patrons and the wider community than ever.
This week, one reader asks: “Have there been any changes in criminal activity during the last few weeks? There sure seem to be a lot more police sirens.”
Need a break from 24/7 information on the pandemic? Many local institutions and organizations are adapting their content and programming (for free) during this time of sheltering in place. Here are some links to just a few.
As we adjust to this new “normal” — some of us working from home, or adjusting to work in essential businesses – things that used to be commonplace are coming into question.
There’s no shortage of coronavirus questions. “What’s Your KCQ?” is back to do its part with another round of answers.
The team at The Star and the Kansas City Public Library is staying on top of what you want to know about the pandemic. Keep asking us your questions here, in the module below, or on kansascity.com/kcq.
During the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, free meals for children are available at area pick-up sites during certain days and times. Check out the current list of organizations providing support.
You have questions about the COVID-19 pandemic. KCQ is doing its part to find answers.
Our goal, in short, is to make these uncertain times a little less uncertain. Your Library is here for you.
How do you keep your kids entertained during this time of social distancing? Through her fearless Harry Potter heroine, Hermione Granger, author J.K. Rowling famously (and wisely) advised: When in doubt go to the library. But what does one do when library buildings are closed? The Library's director of Youth & Family Engagement, Crystal Faris, suggests going to the digital library and taking advantage of all the youth-friendly online services we have to offer.
KCQ tackles the coronavirus question of the moment: What is opened, closed under order?
A resource implemented earlier this year by the Library on its computers is temporarily available for you to use at home for free. NewsGuard can help sift through the news of today and sort fact from fiction – from reports about the upcoming election to updates about the novel coronavirus. The browser extension provides credibility ratings and “Nutrition Label” reviews of thousands of news and information websites, indicating which sources are generally trustworthy, and which have been found to spread misinformation. NewsGuard has temporarily removed its paywall until July 1, meaning anyone can add the service at home to see the most up to date, accurate news possible related to COVID-19.
More than ever, perhaps, we find ourselves relying on technology to stay informed, keep in touch with family and friends, continue school, and work effectively from our homes. Here are some resources – and some generous special offers – to help remain digitally connected during this challenging time.