At a time when the coronavirus pandemic has shut down schools, work, and libraries, Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer and City librarians have joined together to offer online services to residents and children affected by the stay-at-home order. For the last three weeks, families have been greeted each Sunday with a book read by “Mayor Kevin” as part of the San Diego Public Library’s Stay-in Storytime Club.
“Life is particularly stressful right now for families with young children, but we want you to know that San Diego libraries are still here for you online,” said Faulconer. “Parents can take a break for a few minutes while their kids enjoy a story read by me or one of our awesome librarians.”
Recent videos can be seen on multiple platforms including Twitter and Facebook. Videos of “Mayor Kevin” are published Sunday evenings at 5 p.m. while other storytime videos are posted throughout the week on the San Diego Public Library website as well as in the Stay-in Storytime Club Facebook group and on YouTube.
“While our buildings are currently closed, the San Diego Public Library continues to serve San Diegans online,” said Library Director Misty Jones. “Through the Library’s online databases, our patrons have access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks along with educational materials, homework help, and much more. Our librarians have also taken their programming online, providing storytimes, craft tutorials, and virtual book clubs to stay connected to the community during this time.”
In reaction to this public health crisis, many children’s story publishers have worked with local libraries to allow for temporary sharing of children’s’ favorites. This Sunday, Faulconer will read to children “Sleepy Bird” by Jeremy Tankard. Previously, he has read popular children’s books including “This & That” by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek, and “Sleepytime Me” by San Diego author Edith Hope Fine.
The San Diego Public Library moved many of its resources online including a closure frequently asked questions for San Diegans to enjoy and share from home, resources include:
To date, more than 100 librarians and staff have answered more than 1,500 questions online and recorded over 75 videos, including 40 storytime and 15 craft videos. San Diegans have access to 98,000 eBooks/eAudiobooks and over 50 databases.
A statewide “Stay-at-Home” order is in effect until April 30. For more information on the order, including what’s closed, what’s open, and which industries are exempted by the state, please visit COVID19.ca.gov.
For information regarding COVID-19 cases and directives from the County of San Diego public health officials, please visit www.coronavirus-sd.com.
For the latest City operational updates and steps the public can take to help reduce the spread of the disease, please visit sandiego.gov/coronavirus.
