Only half of our full-time staff had laptops to take home, so properly equipping everyone for telework was an immediate priority. We had just launched a community conversation initiative we didn’t want to stagnate, wanting to keep patrons involved and informed via programming and remaining committed to serving those in the most need.

During quarantine, we quickly realized how much some patrons missed us, and launched a Let’s Stay in Touch service for people to call to chat. As we moved to curbside services, we offered Book & Movie Bundles, themed bundles of genre-themed items, and Take & Create Kits for all ages — simple crafts with enclosed instructions. We partnered with Feeding America Southwest Virginia to promote a charity-based incentive program based on community reading goals.

Storytimes, genealogy clubs and book groups became online staples. We posted 109 story times and our genealogy club’s attendance increased by 30% since going online. We have distributed 4000+ craft kits and hundreds of Book & Movie Bundles have circulated since the release of the promotional video. Trivia Night’s popularity has led to working with a local beer shop to expand it. We reached our community SRP goal so the Friends donated $1,500 to FASWVA. We’re grateful to have been a connecter during a trying time.