Disclaimer: This page is dedicated to all the updates concerning the Vicksburg District Library and the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The posts listed below may not concern patrons or facilities beyond the area of Vicksburg, Kalamazoo, or the state of Michigan. Thank you.
Tuesday, December 7, 2021
Yesterday, the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department released a statement in regards to National Influenza Vaccination Week. The release states:
“Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department is observing National Influenza Vaccination Week by urging residents to receive vaccines against highly contagious illnesses as soon as possible. Anyone can get the flu or COVID-19, including healthy children and adults. Getting the flu vaccine and an initial or booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family.”
The complete release can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Thursday, October 21, 2021
Yesterday, the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department issued the following statement in support of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week:
“the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) plans to kick-off National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 24-30, 2021, but holding lead screening clinics on October 21 from 1 to 4 p.m. and October 22 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 311 E. Alcott Street. This clinic is specifically for children affected by the recall issued by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration early this year for certain lead test kits; however, children not specifically impacted by the lead kit recall are also eligible for the lead screening clinics being held.”
The full release can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Tuesday, August 3, 2021
This afternoon, the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department issued a recommendation that face masks be worn by all individuals – fully vaccinated and unvaccinated – while indoors in public. This announcement comes following the recommendation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to do the same as of July 27, 2021.
The following are also recommended at this time:
- “Receive the COVID-19 vaccine, if eligible
- Wear your face mask while indoors
- Wash your hands frequently
- Maintain a distance of six feet from others
- Enhance ventilation systems within buildings
- Stay home when sick and get tested for COVID-19
- Adhere to isolation if you test positive for COVID-19 or quarantine if considered a close contact.”
The full release can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Tuesday, July 13, 2021
On July 12, 2021, The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department released an update about COVID-19 and the continued efforts to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine in Kalamazoo County. The update includes extended vaccine clinic hours, registering for homebound COVID-19 vaccinations, and obtaining a replacement vaccination card if needed. The full release can be downloaded below.
Thursday, July 1, 2021
In order to encourage more people in the state of Michigan to receive their vaccinations against COVID-19, Governor Whitmer announced a cash and scholarship sweepstakes who have received at least one dose. The press release reads as follows:
“Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announce the creation of the MI Shot to Win Sweepstakes, a lottery-style raffle that gives vaccinated Michiganders a chance to win $5 million in cash and a combined total of nearly $500,000 in college scholarships…Under Michigan’s new sweepstakes, residents age 18 and older who have received one dose of vaccine are eligible to register for a combines total of $5 million in cash giveaways.
“In addition, Michigan’s vaccine sweepstakes will offer the opportunity to win one of nine Scholarship Drawing prizes available to vaccinated Michiganders between ages 12-17 whose parents enter on their behalf. Each Scholarship Drawing prize consists of a four-year Michigan Education Trust (MET) charitable tuition contract (valued at $55,000) that may be used to pay for tuition and mandatory fees at a college or university in accordance with MET terms and conditions.
“The sweepstakes begin today (July 1) and end on August 3, 2021. Eligibility criteria for each of the drawings is at www.MIShotToWin.com.”
The full press release can be accessed HERE.
Tuesday, May 18, 2021
The Michigan Health & Community Services Department announced a two-day Teen Pfizer Vaccine Clinic.
The clinic will be held on Wednesday, May 19th from 1:00pm to 6:00pm and Thursday, May 20th from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center. The cost is free and no insurance cards are needed.
Details can be downloaded below.
Thursday, May 13, 2021
This morning, the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Department released a statement in regards to the Pfizer vaccine becoming available to those who are ages 12 to 15 years old. The statement reads as follows:
“Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department will start vaccinating children ages 12-15 years old with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at all upcoming Pfizer vaccination clinics. The vaccine was authorized and recommended by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) earlier this week. Parents/guardians wishing to protect their children from COVID-19 may schedule an appointment with the health department at www.kalcounty.com/covid19vaccine or by calling 269-373-5200. Only the Pfizer vaccine has been approved for minors 12-17 years old at this time.”
The full release can be downloaded in English and Spanish below.
Tuesday, March 30, 2021
The Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Department released an update about the COVID-19 vaccine and those who are eligible. The update reads:
“The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department is reporting that healthcare partners such as hospitals, federally qualified health centers, pharmacies, and local public health departments have administered 128,649 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to Kalamazoo County residents. This represents 37.8% of residents over the age of 16 who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to date and 22.1% have completed the vaccination series.
“Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department is announcing that starting Tuesday, March 30, people who are 16 years or older who live in Kalamazoo County are now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine from the health department.”
The full release can be downloaded below in English and Spanish. We also recommend seeing the Kalamazoo County Government website at www.kalcounty.com/covid19vaccine for more details. Wishing you all the best of safety and health at this time!
Monday, March 22, 2021
The Kalamazoo County Health Department has announced a COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic to be held at Vicksburg High School on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 from 10:00am – 2:00pm. A flier with the complete information on who qualifies and how to register can be downloaded below.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CLINIC IS NOT BEING HELD AT THE VICKSBURG DISTRICT LIBRARY AND WE ARE NOT HANDLING REGISTRATION OF ANY KIND.
Thank you and please continue to be safe and healthy at this time.
UPDATE AS OF MARCH 23, 2021 AT 9:37AM…
The COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic to be held at Vicksburg High School on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 is now open to all those who are 18+ in age. Please see the updated flier for complete details.
Tuesday, March 9, 2021
Today the Kalamazoo County Government announced that it is expanding its COVID-19 vaccine eligibility and a scheduling plan for those who are now eligible. The release states the following:
“Starting the week of March 8, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will begin implementing the next phase of vaccination eligibility. As vaccine supplies allow, Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department will expand eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine to select frontline essential workers in Phase 1B, all adults age 50 and older, and caregiver family members and guardians age 16 and older of children who have special health care needs.”
The complete release can be downloaded in English and Spanish below.
Wednesday, March 3, 2021
On March 3rd, the Kalamazoo County Health Department released a statement in regards to those aged 65 years and older receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. The release states the following:
“Due to the anticipated availability of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine this week, as well as increase shipments of both Pfizer and Moderna doses, the amount of vaccine doses available to the health department has increased. Because of this increase, the health department is close to calling or emailing the entirety of the 65+ COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-registration Waitlist.”
The entire statement can be accessed and downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Tuesday, November 10, 2020
On November 9th, the Kalamazoo County Health Department released a statement in regards to how they are prioritizing contact tracing at this time. The release states the following:
“Kalamazoo County COVID-19 cases are continuing to trend upward, thus placing a strain on the state and local public health departments. Even with assistance from Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) with disease investigation and contact tracing, capacity has been reached. The health department will start prioritizing disease investigation and contact tracing efforts. Therefore, individuals and their close contacts may not receive a phone call from Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department or MDHHS.”
The full release can be downloaded below in both English and Spanish.
Fact sheets about testing positive for COVID-19 are also available below for download in English and Spanish.
Wednesday, October 28, 2020
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has launched a media campaign promoting free mental wellness counseling entitled “Be Kind to Your Mind.”
The “Be Kind to Your Mind” campaign promotes the use of Michigan’s free, confidential Stay Well counseling line, and aims to combat stigma associated with seeking help for feelings of depression, anxiety, anger or loss – all common during a disaster like COVID-19.
The Stay Well counseling line debuted on May 13th, and is staffed with crisis counselors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Callers can access the line by dialing Michigan’s COVID-19 hotline at 888-535-6136 and pressing “8” at the prompt. The service is part of a federally funded grant program implemented by the MDHHS Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Administration (BHDDA) in partnership with the Michigan State Police.
“Many of use are having a hard time right now,” said MDHHS Director Robert Gordon. “There should be zero shame and zero stigma – just honesty that can help each of us find our own inner strength. ‘Be Kind to Your Mind’ says you can talk about the strain from COVID with trained counselors who are available for free if you call 888-535-6136 and press 8, or visit Michigan.gov/StayWell.”
More information is available on the Stay Well website. A copy of the full media advisory can be viewed here.
Tuesday, October 6, 2020
In response to the ruling by the Michigan Supreme Court on Friday, October 2nd, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, as well as the Health and Community Services Department of Kalamazoo, have enacted Emergency Order Under MCL 333.2253 – Gathering Prohibition and Mask Order. This order makes the use of face masks still mandatory in public places. It also places limits on how many people can gather in places of certain sizes. A copy of the Emergency Order from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, as well as a statement from the Kalamazoo Health and Community Services Department, can be found below.
Please note that due to this order, proper face mask and/or facial covering attire is still mandatory in order to enter the Vicksburg District Library. Those who do not adhere to this order will be asked to leave. If you are unable to wear a mask, please contact us so we can make proper arrangements for you. This may be in the form of Curbside Service Pick Up.
In addition, the Kalamazoo Health and Community Services Department has released a statement urging all residents to get a flu vaccine this year to help assist with slowing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. This statement can be accessed below in both English and Spanish.
Tuesday, September 15, 2020
Per a news release from the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Department, the 2020 Kalamazoo County Veterans Stand Down Event will take place on Friday, September 18th in the Salvation Army’s parking lot, located at 1700 S. Burdick Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49001.
The entire release can be downloaded below in both English and Spanish.
Monday, July 13, 2020
Per the Kalamazoo Health and Community Services Department, an employee of a local plasma center has been diagnosed with COVID-19, possibly exposing staff and donors to the virus.
The news release states the following:
“One symptomatic employee who works for the Grifols BioMat USA, has tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The health department advises people who were at the plasma center located at 167 E. Kalamazoo Avenue on the following dates June 27, 28, and 29, and July 3, 6, 8, and 9 to monitor themselves daily for symptoms of the respiratory disease and seek testing from their healthcare provider.
“The medical/clinical employee with COVID-19 was wearing a face covering and shield while working; however, transmission is still possible due to the prolonged close contact that may occur during the process of plasma donation. People with symptoms, which may develop within two to 14 days after exposure, should seek immediate testing for COVID-19 and isolate themselves while awaiting results. People without symptoms may request testing, if desired. Asymptomatic infections may also occur and can be contagious. Symptoms of COVID-19 include, but are not limited to, cough, shortness of breath, fever, and new loss of taste or smell.”
The entirety of the release can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
Yesterday, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer released the document MI Safe Schools: Michigan’s 2020-21 Return to School Roadmap, outlining plans for students to return to instruction in the fall for the new school year. The document in its entirety can be accessed on the Michigan.gov website or at this link.
Thursday, June 25, 2020
The United States Department of Justice – Civil Rights Division has updated their Information and Technical Assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) page to keep people, businesses, and other entities aware of fraudulent face mask exempt flyers and cards going around during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of these documents include the Department of Justice’s seal, but are not endorsed or covered by the ADA. The notice can be viewed below, along with the most common example, coming from an organization called The Freedom to Breathe Agency. This agency is not endorsed by the American government.
Per the ADA website, “the Department urges the public not to rely on the information contained in these postings and to visit ADA.gov for ADA information issued by the Department. For more information and technical assistance about the ADA, please contact the ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY).”
Please be aware that any person who presents this card or flyer, wearing no mask, and tries to enter the library at this time may be asked to leave. Thank you for your continued patience and cooperation as we work to reopen safely to the public.
Fraudulent Face Mask Flyers/Cards Alert from the ADA
Wednesday, June 3, 2020
Yesterday, in a testimony delivered remotely before the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, Governor Whitmer called on the federal government to help states like Michigan ensure and promote widespread testing for COVID-19. The governor also highlighted the aggressive action Michigan has taken in the fight against COVID-19, including the state’s efforts to secure personal protective equipment for frontline workers, expand testing capacity and eligibility, and address health disparities in communities of color.
A copy of Whitmer’s full testimony can be downloaded below.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer Testimony
Edit 12:51pm, Monday, June 1, 2020
On Friday, May 29, 2020, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-106, which extends the deadline for Michigan residents to pay back taxes and avoid foreclosure on their property during the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to June 29, 2020.
Says Whitmer, “As we slowly and safely begin reopening our economy it’s critical homeowners don’t have to fear losing their home during a global health pandemic. This Executive Order gives homeowners some peace of mind as we continue to flatten the COVID-19 curve.”
The entirety of the Executive Order can be read here at the Michigan.gov website.
Monday, June 1, 2020
On Friday, May 29th, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer held a press conference updating the public of the progress the state was making in regards to the COVID-19 pandemic. The panel of experts who joined her during the press conference were MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, State Budget Director Chris Kolb, President of the Michigan Nurses Association Jamie Brown, Assistant Training Director at Michigan Laborers’ Training & Apprenticeship Fund Daryl Gallant, and President of Gretchen’s House Child Care Providers Gretchen Preston. Below are links to the entirety of the press conference, as well as copies of the slides featured during the meeting.
Gretchen Whitmer’s Press Conference on Friday, May 29, 2020
Thursday, May 28, 2020
The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department has announced COVID-19 testing for those living in nursing homes and those who work there. The announcement below states:
“In Kalamazoo County, nine nursing homes will be tested with three sites conducting their own and the remaining six being conducted by National Guard members. Testing is offered to all residents and staff members of the skilled nursing facilities, with approximately 1500 people opting to participate today. The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department coordinated with state partners and nursing homes through the Area Agency on Aging IIIA staff.”
The full announcement can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Yesterday, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer released MI Safe Start: A Plan to Re-Engage Michigan’s Economy, a website and document to help guide the reopening of the state of Michigan through the COVID-19 pandemic.
“All of us know the importance of getting the economy moving again. We have already loosened some restrictions on landscaping, construction, and manufacturing. But the worst thing we could do is open up in a way that causes a second wave of infections and death, puts health care workers at further risk, and wipes out all the progress we’ve made.”
The interactive MI Start Map and document can be found below.
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
To our loyal patrons of the Vicksburg District Library:
On the afternoon of Thursday, May 21, 2020, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer extended our closure due to the novel COVID-19 virus (coronavirus) through Friday, June 12, 2020. The current situation with our closure is that Executive Order 2020-100 extended numerous other Executive Orders, including Executive Order 2020-69. We are closed because of the extension of Executive Order 2020-69, and are currently unable to provide curbside services for that reason. This has affected all libraries in the state of Michigan, including those in the Upper Peninsula and Traverse City areas, which are currently with experimenting with reopening certain services. A full list of the Executive Orders can be found on the State of Michigan website.
During this closure, Library Director Eric Hansen and the VDL Library Board have been having regular conversations about how to best serve the public in the future. We have been considering the professional guidance supplied by the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Service Department, the Centers for Disease Control, and the Library of Michigan. We are working to incorporate the best advice from medical professionals in order to keep our patrons and employees safe and healthy during this time.
While we are closed, we at the Vicksburg District Library are working hard to serve the community!
- Need something to read, listen to, or watch? Now is the time to download the OverDrive application to your electronic device. OverDrive is available in most device app stores. All you need to access the content is an active Vicksburg District Library card number. Is your card inactive or expired? Email us at info@vicksburglibrary.org. We might be able to help.
- Are your K-12 children struggling with some of their homework? We have several resources that can assist them, from tutoring in particular topics to preparing for college in the fall. We also have virtual tours of various museums and educational institutions to give them a brain break. Be sure to check out all the resources listed on our Helpful Resources: Kids, Helpful Resources: Teens& Tweens, and I’m Stuck Inside. Now What? (Kids) webpages. Know a great resource for any of these pages? You can also suggest them at info@vicksburglibrary.org. We may add your suggestion to our resources!
- We are also still offering programming online for both youth and adults! Youth Librarian Stephanie (AKA Mrs. W) is still offering Story Time virtually through Facebook Live on Mondays and Thursdays at 10:30am until further notice. Adults are not to be forgotten either. Librarian Adrianne will be holding So Whatcha Reading?, an open book discussion group via Zoom on select Thursday evenings. She is also continuing her online series of Books & Brews via Facebook Live. Be sure to check our Calendar of Events regularly to see when programming will be held, as well as information on how to access them.
- Lastly, we are always here to answer any questions you have, whether it is a reference question, a question about our closure, or any of steps we are taking to protect you and the community when we reopen. Feel free to email us at info@vicksburglibrary.org anytime. Please give us 24 hours to reply as this is not a live chat and keep in mind we are still operating with limited resources away from the physical library environment.
We wish you all continued health and safety at this time and hope to see you all soon!
Friday, May 1, 2020
Last night, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer extended the closure of various non-essential services and businesses, such as libraries, through May 28th via Executive Order 2020-69. The entirety of the Executive Order can be accessed at the link below.
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
The following was released from the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department regarding the latest COVID-19 death:
“Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department (HCS) received notification of a death in Kalamazoo County attributed to COVID-19 yesterday. The individual was an older adult between the ages of 60-79 years and did not have underlying medical conditions. This brings the total number of deaths in Kalamazoo County to twelve (12), with all being 60+ years old.”
The full release can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Monday, April 27, 2020
The Vicksburg District Library has received the following notice from the Kalamazoo County Government about the open positions available for registered notices. The notice states the following:
“Kalamazoo County Government (KCG) is hiring registered nurses (RNs) for the Health & Community Services Department to assist with the local COVID-19 response efforts.
The temporary positions will be located in a 24-hour temporary isolation facility delivering nursing care, providing education, and conducting disease surveillance. Those hired will provide direct acute care services, active disease surveillance and education to Kalamazoo County homeless individuals to ensure appropriate investigation, and treatment and prevention of further transmission of disease while under quarantine for COVID-19 in a local 24-hour isolate and quarantine facility.”
The complete notice is available for download below in both English and Spanish. Please refer to the attached information with any questions or inquiries. Thank you and please stay safe and healthy.
Friday, April 24, 2020
Due to Executive Order 2020-59 issued by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer this afternoon, the Vicksburg District Library is to remain closed through at least May 15, 2020. The entirety of Executive Order 2020-59 can be downloaded below. Any questions about the order and how it relates to the Vicksburg District Library can be directed to our email at info@vicksburglibrary.org. We hope you continue to be healthy and safe at this time. Thank you.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
The following links have been provided by Vicksburg Community Schools for those families and students who are in search of free or reduced rates on high-speed internet during the COVID-19 outbreak. Please note these links were provided by VCS and are not associated with the Vicksburg District Library for any form of profit. The links are as follows:
- Comcast Internet Essentials
- Spectrum Internet Assist
- Access from AT&T
- Verizon Innovative Learning
- FCC’s Lifeline Program
Monday, April 20, 2020
The Kalamazoo Health & Community Services Department released this statement about the latest COVID-19 related death in Kalamazoo County:
“Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department (HCS) received notification of a death in Kalamazoo County attributed to COVID-19. The individual was an older adult with underlying medical conditions. This brings the total number of deaths in Kalamazoo County to nine (9), with all being 70+ years old.”
The full statement can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
The Kalamazoo Health & Community Services Department released this statement about the recent COVID-19 related death in Kalamazoo County:
“Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department (HCS) received notification of a death in Kalamazoo County attributed to COVID-19. The individual was an older adult with underlying medical conditions. This brings the total number of deaths in Kalamazoo County to eight (8), with all being 70+ years old.”
The entire statement can be downloaded below in English and Spanish.
Edit: 3:45pm, Thursday, April 9, 2020
With Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order to extend our closure, we wanted to remind our valued patrons of the following information given these special circumstances:
Reference Questions:
Reference questions can be sent to info@vicksburglibrary.org. Please ask your reference question with as many complete details as possible. Please keep in mind that this is not a real-time chat and it may take some time to find an answer. Also, we may not have access to our usual reference materials due to the closure, so we may not always be able to get a hold of the answer. But we will do our best to assist you with what we have.
Due Dates & Drop Boxes:
At this time of crisis and closure, we are foregoing any due dates of items that are checked out. Once we have a scheduled date to reopen, we will post a new due date for all checked out items. Keep in mind that the due date will not be the day we reopen to add ease of access for our patrons. Please hold on to all checked our items until we reopen as our drop boxes are locked and closed at this time. This will help curb the spread of possible contamination, as well as save any items from possible damage during the closure. Please do not attempt to peel back signs or unlock drop boxes to drop off your items as this may cause damage to library property and/or cause contamination issues.
Online Accounts, Renewals & Fees:
As we are asking patrons to hold items until we reopen, your online patron account will show pending late/lost item fees and that items need to be renewed. There is no need to worry about this during this closure. Upon reopening the library, when items have been returned and checked in, any late fees accrued during this closure will be waived by the library. This also applies to all MeLCat/InterLibrary Loan items.
MeLCat & InterLibrary Loan:
As all libraries in the state of Michigan are closed, MeLCat and InterLibrary Loan services have been suspended. All orders are still in place and service will resume when libraries are allowed to reopen once more.
Book & Item Donations:
Given the nature of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and its inability to be cleaned/removed/killed on the surfaces of books easily, we will be suspending our book donation service until sometime in the future.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@vicksburglibrary.org. Thank you.
Thursday, April 9, 2020
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following Executive Order, 2020-42, which extends the closure of all non-essential institutions through April 30, 2020. Executive Order 2020-42 rescinds Executive Order 2020-21. It states:
“This virus is both aggressive and persistent: on April 8, 2020, Michigan reported 20,346 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 959 deaths from it. To win this fight, and to protect the health and safety of our state and each other, we must be just as aggressive and persistent. Though we have all made sacrifices, we must be steadfast.”
The entirety of the Executive Order can be downloaded below.
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
Yesterday, the Kalamazoo County Health and Human Services Department (HCS) released the following public health information about a new COVID-19 test collection site starting today, April 8th:
“The site will only collect specimen from people who have been pre-screened and received an appointment by their provider.
The new collection site does not change the testing criteria a person must meet in order to obtain a test as outlined by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Bureau of Laboratories. Per the emergency order, all testing must meet Priority 1 and Priority 2 criteria due to the limited resources available in the state. Priority 1 and 2 criteria include healthcare facility workers with symptoms, patients 65 years of age and older with symptoms, patients with underlying conditions with symptoms, and first responders with symptoms.
The process for obtaining a COVID-19 test has not changed. After a medical evaluation, a provider makes the decision whether to order a test. If needed, and depending upon laboratory criteria, the provider may order a specimen to be collected for COVID-19 testing.”
The full announcement can be downloaded below in both English and Spanish.
Tuesday, April 7, 2020
Yesterday, the Kalamazoo County Health and Human Services Department (HCS) released the following public health information about using face coverings when out in a public setting:
“I do not want people to have a false sense of security when they wear a face covering in public. People should still adhere to all of the other CDC and MDHHS guidelines such as maintain six feet away from people, wash your hands, and cover your cough and sneeze,” said Jim Rutherford, Kalamazoo County Health Officer. “Recommending people to wear face coverings in public does not mean they are immune to COVID-19. It means you are choosing to protect everyone that is around you in case you may be infected with COVID-19 but not showing any symptoms.”
The full release can be downloaded below in both English and Spanish.
Monday, April 6, 2020
The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department released this statement regarding two deaths related to COVID-19:
“Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department (HCS) received notification of two deaths in Kalamazoo County attributed to COVID-19. Both individuals were older adults with underlying medical conditions. This brings the total number of deaths to three.
HCS continues to work with all of our community partners as we address the challenges facing our community due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Community mitigation and prevention measures are already in place due to Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order “Stay Home, Stay Safe”. HCS urges residents to comply with the executive order to help stop the spread within our community. Everyone should take the recommended precautions seriously and practice prevention, such as staying home and washing hands.”
Edit: 12:49pm, Thursday, April 2, 2020
VCS Superintendent Keevin O’Neill sent out the following message to VCS families via email this afternoon:
“Good Afternoon Vicksburg Families,
First and foremost, I hope this email finds you safe and healthy. Today, Governor Whitmer issued executive order 2020-35 closing all schools for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. This was expected, and I want all of you to know we have been working diligently on plans to continue learning during this unprecedented time.
With that being said, we have many details that still need to be worked out. My hope is to communicate our plans to all families and students in the very near future. I cannot thank all of you enough for your patience, your calmness, and your support during this difficult time. We are in this together and rest assured, the well-being of our entire school community is our top priority,
I hope you can take some time to enjoy spring break.
You have my promise that I will continue to communicate regularly regarding VCS operations.
Please take care and know you are all in my thoughts,
Keevin O’Neill, Superintendent”
Thursday, April 2, 2020
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following Executive Order, 2020-35, this morning, ordering that all in-person educational institutions be suspended for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year. The order states the following…
“Given virus’s aggressively persistent spread and potentially fatal consequences, in-person instruction in our schools is too dangerous to resume in the near future, and very likely for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.”
The full print of Executive Order 2020-35 can be accessed at the link below.
Saturday, March 28, 2020
The following notice was released yesterday from the Kalamazoo County Government and the Health and Community Services Department:
“The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department (HCS) is changing the hours of operation for the COVID-19 Call Center. The call center will operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Since
March 16, 2020, the Kalamazoo County Call Center has answered 1,586 calls. The calls are answered by public health nurses who provide guidance to providers and the public regarding medical-related questions. The reduction to the hours is due to the decrease in number of calls received. The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) COVID-19 Hotline 1-888-535-6136 is still operational Sunday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.”
The complete release is available for download below in both English and Spanish.
Edit: 2:03pm, Wednesday, March 25, 2020
The following was just emailed to parents/guardians of Vicksburg Community School students by superintendent Keevin O’Neill:
“Dear VCS Families,
First and foremost, I hope this email finds you and your family safe and healthy. I know I’ve stated it many times, but the safety, security, and health of our students, staff, and families is, and will always be, the number one priority of VCS. As we enter day two of the “stay home, stay safe” order from Governor Whitmer, I wanted to assure all of you that VCS will continue to support all students and families during the current shutdown the best that we possibly can.
- Food delivery and pick-up will continue through the shutdown, including spring break week. If you have questions regarding food service during the shutdown, please email them to: foodsupport@vicksburgschools.org
- The current order from the Governor closes schools through April 13th. Under this order, students would return to school on Tuesday, April 14, 2020, a day later than originally planned.
- Teachers will continue to share optional learning opportunities and materials during the shutdown. Thank you all for your efforts keeping your children engaged during the shutdown.
I would also like to take a moment to list some frequently asked questions and provide the most up-to-date answers to those questions:
- Will the school year be extended due to the days lost during the shutdown?
We do not have the answer yet. The Michigan Department of Education recently stated that school days lost during the shutdown would not count as instructional days. I will certainly keep you posted as more information becomes available out of Lansing.
- Will students have to repeat grades if the remainder of the school year is canceled?
We do not have the answer yet. Governor Whitmer has said she has no desire to hold students back due to something that is out of their control.
- Will VCS develop a plan to teach students remotely?
At this time, VCS is committed to providing optional learning opportunities to our students during the shutdown. IF the shutdown is extended in the future, we will begin planning based on guidance from the Michigan Department of Education.
As you can see, many questions remain unanswered. I would like to thank you again for your patience and calmness during the current shutdown. Many unknowns exist and we will continue to rely on guidance from the State as decisions are made.
You have my promise that I will continue to communicate regularly to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding the operations of VCS during the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation.
Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions.
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Keevin J. O’Neill, Superintendent“
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Per the Kalamazoo County Government and the Health and Community Services Department, “For at least the next three weeks, essential services that sustain and protect health and life will continue at HCS, Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. No evening clinics will be held on Thursdays.”
The press release is available for download below in both English and Spanish. The release gives a list of the essential services remaining open and what limitations they may include at this time.
Edit: 11:32am, Monday, March 23, 2020
This morning, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared Executive Order 2020-21 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, also known as Coronavirus. This order, commonly referred to as “Shelter in Place,” orders all non-essential businesses to be closed and highly recommends that all residents of Michigan stay in their home or residence to help suppress the spread of this novel virus. A link to Executive Order 2020-21 is listed below.
Governor Whitmer had this to say during her press conference this morning:
- grocery stores and pharmacies are allowed to stay open so that food and prescriptions may be readily accessed
- doctors offices are allowed to stay open to provide medical care
- restaurants are allowed to provide take out and drive thru service to provide food
- food supplies are adequate, so there is no need to panic and/or hoard
- there is no vaccine for COVID-19 at this time
- while doctors are working diligently, it is expected that there will NOT be a sufficient number of beds in Michigan hospitals for all those diagnosed with COVID-19
- milder cases of COVID-19 will be sent home to recover
- walks and going outside are allowed at this time as long as people stay a distance of 6 feet from each other
- hand washing with soap and warm water for 20 seconds multiple times a day is highly encouraged
- washing any clothes or surfaces that may be contaminated should be done right away
- do not touch your face, specifically eyes, nose, and mouth, if you are able
- above all, people are highly encouraged to stay at home or their place of residence for the next three weeks
We continue to wish you all the best in safety and health at this time. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at info@vicksburglibrary.org.
Monday, March 23, 2020
The Kalamazoo County Government issued a press release this morning. “The Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department (HCS) is reporting three positive cases for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The three adult cases are unrelated. Two have travel histories within the State of Michigan and one with no known travel history outside of Kalamazoo County. HCS’s communicable disease staff will be contacting people who have been in close contact with the patients. Those people will be assessed for symptoms and monitored appropriately.”
The full release can be accessed and downloaded below. Thank you.
Saturday, March 21, 2020
This afternoon, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer released Executive Order 2020-20. Similar to Executive Order 2020-09, this order extends to closure of all non-essential public places (such as libraries and museums) and places of amusement until Monday, April 13, 2020. The previous date had been Monday, April 6, 2020.
For the Vicksburg Public Library, we are currently discussing when our current due date will be for all items currently checked out. At the moment, it is still being set at Monday, April 13th. When we update this we will be sure to let you know here on the website and on all of our social media (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram).
A copy of Executive Order 2020-20 is available for download below. If you have any questions or concerns, the best way to reach us is by email at info@vicksburglibrary.org. We will get back to you as soon as we are able.
Again, stay safe and healthy during this time everyone.
Edit: 12:58pm, Wednesday, March 18, 2020
There has been concern with the Coronavirus closure that our patrons will not have access to 2019 tax forms. While we cannot open to give you access to them, we have created a page containing many of the common forms our patrons need that can be downloaded and printed from home. The page can be found at the left hand menu. If you need to request a link to a form that is not listed, please contact us at info@vicksburglibrary.org. We will get to your request as soon as we are able and will be happy to help you! Thank you again for your patience at this time.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
As a reminder to our patrons, the following guidelines are in place at this time during our unprecedented closure:
- The Vicksburg District Library (as well as all libraries in the state of Michigan) have been ordered closed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
- At this time, we are reopening on Monday, April 6th. However, this could change in the future depending on how events unfold.
- For the safety and health of our patrons and staff, our drop boxes are closed at this time. Please keep your items until we reopen. All boxes are shut with notices across them. Please do not remove the notices and place your items in the drop boxes as the drop boxes are not being emptied and checked daily. This could mean damage to items, which could result in fines on your account.
- While this may not be reflected on your account online, the new due date for all items is currently April 13th. This includes MeL items. All overdue fees that are being accrued at this time will be waived once we reopen.
- All MeL orders are suspended at this time. They will activated once more when we officially reopen.
- When we reopen, we will not be taking book donations until at least May 1st. This date, however, may be subject to change as well.
- When we reopen and items are checked in, all fees reflecting the dates of this closure will be waived as long as they are returned to the Vicksburg District Library by April 13th, giving all patrons a window of opportunity to return items. Once items are returned, fees will be waived and will be reflected in your online account.
Please remember that the dates and guidelines above may be subject to change during this time. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at info@vicksburglibrary.org and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
We wish you all continued safety and health at this time!
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented and has left many people with unanswered questions. The Vicksburg District Library had launched the page Understanding Coronavirus to help everyone during this time. It can be found at http://vicksburglibrary.org/understanding-coronavirus.
Edit: 1:43pm, Monday, March 16, 2020
Early this afternoon, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order No. 2020-9, Temporary restrictions on the use of place of public accommodation. This includes libraries and museums. A copy of the full order is available below. Thank you for your continued diligence.
Monday, March 16, 2020
Good morning to our VDL patrons! We have some updates this morning about our closure and wanted to get some answers to you about the current situation…
First, as previously stated, at the behest of the Library of Michigan and the recommendation of Gov. Whitmer, the Vicksburg District Library is closed to all patrons at this time due to concerns about the transmission of Covid-19, the Cornoavirus. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, but please know that we are working diligently with your health and safety in mind.
Second, we expect to reopen on Monday, April 6th at the earliest. This date, however, may change depending on future developments. That being said, if you have any items currently checked out, here are a few things for you to keep in mind:
- While this may not be reflected on your account online, the new due date for all items is currently April 13th.
- All overdue fees that are being accrued at this time will be waived once we reopen.
- Please do not bring items to return to our drop boxes. All three drop boxes are currently closed.
- All MeL orders are suspended at this time. They will activate once more when we officially reopen.
- When we reopen, we will not be taking book donations until May 1st. This date, however, may be subject to change as well.
- When we reopen and items are checked in, all fees reflecting the dates of this closure will be waived as long as they are returned to the Vicksburg District Library by April 13th. This will then be reflected in your online library account.
Third, as previously announced, all programming at the library and any room reservations have been cancelled at this time. We will let you know when they are reinstated. Please keep in mind that this may not be the day we reopen. However, Stephanie and Adrianne are working on virtual programs and resources that you may access online in the next week or so. We will keep you updated on this here and on our social media sites (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter).
Fourth, we will be posting different resources to help you stay safe and health at this time from the Coronavirus.
Lastly, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, you are welcome to email us at info@vicksburglibrary.org. We will get back to you as soon as we are available.
Stay safe and healthy during this time everyone!