Many libraries are rightly concerned about how to respond to the H1N1 “swine” flu. Libraries should be prepare for a possible outbreak but there is no need to overreact. Fortunately there are now ample information resources available. These are a few things for libraries to consider:
- H1N1 flu will be widespread and contagious but so far there is no indication that it will cause more severe cases than the annual seasonal flu.
- H1N1 flu is more dangerous for younger persons than seasonal flu, and less dangerous for those over age 64.
- At this point it appears unlikely that H1N1 flu will require public library closings.
This is advice on what libraries should do to prepare for the H1N1 flu:
- Review your current pandemic flu plan or develop a new plan.
- Make flu related information available – in the library, on the library’s homepage, and through community partners.
- Engage the county or local health department to prepare channels of communication about community outbreak information.
- Provide flexible leave policies to allow workers to stay home to care for sick household members or for children, if schools dismiss students or childcare programs close.
- Purchase supplies such as tissues, soap, and alcohol-based hand cleaners to encourage healthful habits in the workplace.
- Consider restricting or canceling group programs in the event of an outbreak.
Sources of additional information include:
Jim Minges is the Director of NEKLS. You can reach him by email (jminges (at) nekls.org) or by phone. Visit the 
