Call to Action: Urge Governor Whitmer to Allow Libraries to Begin Curbside Services

Updated -- May 20, 2020

MLA is here to help our libraries be totally prepared for the eventual phased-in reopening of their facilities and their services. Libraries across Michigan are now preparing individualized phased-in reopening plans and library administrators are being very careful and thoughtful to take into consideration staff and patron protections from the continued spread and/or a resurgence of the coronavirus. Many libraries are ready to begin implementing curbside services. We are now asking the Governor to allow libraries to offer curbside and no-contact pickup services.

Libraries Must Develop a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan

May 19, 2020

Updated -- May 21, 2020 -- Governor Whitmer issues Executive Order 2020-97 - Rescission of Executive Order 2020-91 amending the standards set forth in EO 2020-91 to include new provisions governing outpatient health-care facilities.

In accordance with Executive Order 2020-91 all libraries must develop a COVID-19 preparedness and response plan, consistent with recommendations in Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19, developed by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA).

By June 1, 2020, or within two weeks of resuming in-person activities, whichever is later, a business’s or operation’s plan must be made readily available to employees, labor unions, and customers, whether via the website, internal network or by hard copy. 

View the OSHA handbook: Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19

Libraries to Be Included on Governor's Reopening Advisory Workgroups

May 13, 2020

Last week, MLA heard that Governor Whitmer would be forming workgroups to help determine reopening plans for different industries, and MLA immediately asked to be at the table.

We received communications yesterday that Governor Whitmer formally announced the creation of these advisory workgroups (led by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity). The workgroups will provide input on Michigan’s process to safely re-engage the economy. Workgroups will focus on mitigation of transmission risk in the workplace, including but not limited to best practices for workplace safety, PPE requirements, and retraining workers on newly implemented COVID-19 work requirements.

MI Safe Start Plan

May 7, 2020

Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer detailed the six phases of her MI Safe Start Plan to re-engage Michigan’s economy. The Governor has worked with leaders in health care, business, labor, and education to develop the plan, and announced today that Michigan is in phase three.

Executive Order 2020-75 Extends Order Allowing Remote Public Meetings During the COVID-19 Pandemic

May 6, 2020

Effective Immediately, All Michigan Libraries to Remain Closed to the Public Through May 28, 2020

April 30, 2020

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY - LIBRARIES TO REMAIN CLOSED THROUGH MAY 28, 2020.

On Thursday, April 30, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-69 which extends her previous order that temporarily closes certain places of public accommodation such as libraries, theaters, bars, casinos and more.

Read Executive Order 2020-69

This information sheet provided by the Library of Michigan contains details on the recent Executive Order 2020-69 and how it, in conjunction with EO 2020-59 (Stay at Home Order) and EO 2020-48 (Virtual Public Meetings) may affect library activities.

Please note that this document is only for research and information and is not to be considered legal advice. Libraries with questions or concerns regarding how executive orders may affect their operations should consult their attorney for advice.