Mask Mandate wrap up

Mask Mandate Still In Effect For Public Transit

Submitted by Eric West

Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Even with the recent change in CDC guidance regarding the continuing need to wear masks to protect against COVID-19, and Washington State adopting this guidance, those using public transit buses and facilities are still required to wear face coverings, per the Federal order effective February 2, 2021. This requirement will be in effect until September 13, 2021.

Link Transit is required to adhere to this Federal order and will continue to enforce mask wearing for all passengers while on board buses, or at transit facilities like Columbia Station. There are some exceptions to this requirement.

For more information, please contact Link Transit Guest Services at 509-662-1155 or visit www.linktransit.com

Masks Are Still Required At Libraries

Michelle McNiel

NCW Libraries is still requiring all visitors to wear a mask, including those fully vaccinated.

The latest guidance from the CDC has loosened mask recommendations for fully vaccinated individuals, and the library district is encouraged by climbing vaccination rates and declining infection rates. Here is why masks are still required when visiting libraries and bookmobile locations:

• Fully Vaccinated rates throughout our service area average 32%. In some counties the rate of fully vaccinated individuals are in the low 20%. 
• The guidance from the governor and the CDC does not apply to health care settings, homeless shelters, or schools, and the federal order requiring masks on public transportation remains in place. The service population of libraries is more akin to hospitals, schools, homeless shelters, and public transportation than it is to retail shops and restaurants.
• We want our libraries to be free, open, and accessible to everyone and to do that all patrons can protect our most vulnerable populations by continuing to wear masks and limit their time inside our library buildings.
• L&I guidance has not been updated by the state yet. In the absence of clear guidelines regarding our requirements as an employer, lifting the mask requirement for patrons would be premature. 
• WA DOH has not provided updated industry guidance specific to libraries. We have used this guidance throughout the pandemic to inform our decisions and policies.

“Our libraries serve a lot of families with young children and other vulnerable folks who can’t yet be vaccinated,” said Deputy Director Kim Neher. “Continuing to mask up ensures that libraries can be a safe, welcoming, and accessible place for every community member.”

NCW Libraries has responded creatively throughout the pandemic to meet community needs, expanding access to free public WiFi around all buildings, expanding digital services, providing mail order books and DVDs and offering curbside pickup.

To see the local library hours and browse digital content, visit ncwlibraries.org.