Provincial regulations mandated that all public libraries in Ontario isolate books and other items for 72 hours after being returned, as initial studies suggested that library materials could spread COVID-19 through fomite transmission. However, isolating materials reduced customer access to items and caused significant hardship for staff. When advances in scientific research did show that fomite transmission was not a factor in spreading COVID-19, this was not immediately reflected in the legislation.

The main innovation was to inform the decision-making process of VPL and the Government of Ontario by looking at empirical data. Thanks to the unique research skills of public librarians, this information was gathered and summarized into a comprehensive report, including all relevant issues and research. The report was also updated to take into consideration variants to keep up with the fast developments of the global pandemic.

VPL reviewed the results that showed little risk in COVID-19 transmission via fomites on library material. In response, library administration made the decision to reduce quarantine from three days to one day, the shortest isolation period permissible under Ontario’s regulations. The report was then shared with other Ontario libraries and used to lobby the Ontario government. Finally, a new version of the regulation was promulgated and ended the requirement to isolate library material upon return.