July 28, 2021

Dear Placentia Library District Patrons,

Your health. Our team’s health. Our community’s health. We are in this together.

We continue to monitor the ever-changing COVID-19 situation. The latest information and news on the delta variant is becoming increasingly alarming. According to data from the Orange County Health Care Agency, between July 15 and July 21, Orange County has experienced a 2.95 to 6.1 per 100,000 increase in the seven-day average case rate. The average number of daily COVID-19 cases increased from 121 to 209. The positivity rate also increased from 2.2% to 4% with hospitalizations climbing from 119 to 149 per day.

Over fifty-five percent of Orange County residents have been fully vaccinated. However, nearly 1.4M individuals have yet to get their vaccines. Current data shows unvaccinated individuals are over six times more likely to become infected with COVID-19 than those who are fully vaccinated. The County is seeing more COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, especially among those who are not yet fully vaccinated. We respect every individual’s decision in this matter.

Since we fully reopened on July 12th, we have experienced a 30% increase in patron visits. We anticipate these numbers to continue to rise. In order to accommodate the increased indoor patron usage as well as to contend with the COVID surge in Orange County, and the State, we have made the decision to reinstate mask mandates to better protect the health of our patrons, staff, and volunteers.

Effective August 2, 2021, masks will be required for employees, patrons, and volunteers over the age of two. Masks must cover nose and mouth. We offer services for patrons who are unable to meet the mask requirement. Our team looks forward to assisting you with curbside pickup, take and make kits, virtual programming, online database, and other services available to you if you’re unable to visit us in-person.

We appreciate your understanding. We are committed to keeping you, your family, and our team safe.

Sincerely,

Jeanette Contreras
Library Director