Call for Submissions: Morristown & Morris Township Quarantine Experience

The North Jersey History and Genealogy Center, Morristown and Morris Township Library, would like to know how residents of Morristown and Morris Township have handled being quarantined or self-isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic.  This unique time is worth preserving in writing so that we can help future generations understand how to handle a quarantine and what it is like for us being quarantined in 2020.  

Please tell us in 1500 words or less what being quarantined has been like for you. We would like to know:

  1. What has surprised you the most during this quarantine?
  2. What is your biggest fear?
  3. Have there been any positive impacts of this quarantine?
  4. What is the most difficult part of the quarantine?
  5. What are your hopes for the future when this quarantine is over? And how have those hopes changed from before this quarantine began?

 

Please let us know if you are willing to be contacted by the North Jersey History and Genealogy Center well after the quarantine is over.

All submissions must include your first and last name, age, other information including occupation, level of education completed, and whether you reside in the Town or Township. Please email your submission to njhgc@jfpl.org as an attachment or via USPS to North Jersey History and Genealogy Center, Morristown and Morris Township Library, 1 Miller Rd., Morristown, NJ 07960.

 

* Only send this work if in agreement that Morristown and Morris Township Library has permission to share the words with the public as part of the historical record and no benefit, financial or otherwise, is given or implied for the submitted material.

Originally Published April 10th, 2020

Phased Reopening

The Library will begin its next phase of reopening with public access to the Library building with limited services on Monday, August 31. 

 

The Library will move into its next phase of reopening with the opening of the Library building to the public with limited services on Monday, August 31 during the following hours: 

Mon.–Thur., 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Fri., 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Sat., 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday

Only 25% of the building’s patron capacity will be allowed into the building and patrons are asked to limit their time in the Library to 45 minutes per day.  There will be no access to public restrooms, individual study rooms or the lower level meeting room at this time.

According to State regulations and CDC recommendations, all patrons over the age of 3 must wear face coverings, utilize hand sanitizing stations when entering and leaving the building and practice social distancing while on Library property. 

The back parking lot entrance will be closed to the public, please use Media or South Street entrances. 

The Children’s, Young Adult, Fiction, Non-fiction, Media and new book collections will be open for patron browsing.  Returned collection items should go into the Library’s book drops and should not be returned to staff or public desks.  

A limited number of public computers will be available for use in the Media Center.  Unsecured Wi-Fi is available throughout the building and on the Library grounds.  Wireless printing is also available to be picked up curbside or in person through the PrinterON App or website.  For more information see the Library website or contact the Reference Department at (973) 538-2592.

The North Jersey History & Genealogy Center will be open by appointment only. Patrons interested in utilizing NJHGC materials should call (973) 538-3473 or e-mail njhgc@jfpl.org to set up an appointment.

Curbside Pick-up will continue to be offered as an option for patrons, you can view information on Curbside pick-up here.

There will be no fines charged on Library collection items through September 8.   Patron cards that were set to expire during the Library closure were extended through September 8. 

All incoming library collection materials will be quarantined for 7 days and where applicable, cleaned/disinfected before being allowed to be checked out by other patrons.  This is to ensure patron and staff safety, but it will result in a delay in those items being checked out by the next patron.  During this period, items will remain on a patron’s card, but again, no fine will accrue on the patron’s card for these three days. 

The Library’s mission is to remain a resource for our residents.  These safety measures are being taken out of an abundance of caution and to be consistent with recommendations for social distancing. We appreciate our patrons’ patience and understanding. If you have any further questions, please email the Library at info@jfpl.org or call (973) 538-6161. 

Please note that patrons can also access the Library from Home. 

Resources from Home for Adults

Resources from Home for Teens

Resources from Home for Kids

Resources from Home for Parents and Educators

 

Statement on Library Preparations related to COVID-19 (coronavirus)

In an effort to protect the high-risk populations that we serve, as well as minimize the potential exposure/transmission of COVID-19, The Morristown & Morris Township Library is taking precautions with its reopening to the public and is putting in place a phased reopening to ensure public safety.  This plan is based upon recommendations from the Center for Disease Control, the County of Morris, local health departments, the State of New Jersey, the New Jersey State Library and Library Link NJ in order to reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the community.  We will reassess the situation regularly to ease restrictions and expand services, but it may also be necessary to reinstate restrictions, limit some services or even close the Library facility to ensure public health.  For any information on changes in Library services and hours, please follow updates on the Library’s website at: www.MMTLibrary.org

The Library takes the safety of its patrons and staff seriously, all patrons (especially those in high-risk categories) wishing to use the Library should exercise caution.  The Governor has asked for people to wear facial protection when in public, social distancing of at least six feet from other individuals and frequent hand washing to help ensure the virus is not spread.

 

Announcing Curbside Concierge

Not sure what your next great read should be? Let us pick for you! Fill out our Curbside Concierge form to let us know your reading habits, likes and dislikes, and our Reader’s Advisors, Children’s Librarians, or YA Librarians will pick a handful of books just for you (or your kids)! 

After we have made our selections for you we will notify you when they’re ready for pickup. Please allow 2-3 business days for us to get your bundle ready. Happy reading!
 
 
 

Adult Summer Reading Club Has Now Ended

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Adult Summer Reading Club this summer. Over the course of 8 weeks you read 227 books and we completed the puzzle together. We will be randomly selecting 12 winners to receive a gift certificate to an eatery in Morristown. You will hear from us if you have been selected.

We wish everyone continued good health during these difficult times.

Jigsaw Puzzle Progress

Here is the completed puzzle!


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here is the how we got there.
Click on an image to see a larger picture and to scroll through the photos.
[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”12″ display=”basic_thumbnail” thumbnail_crop=”0″]
 

 

The Basics of Curbside Pickup

There are Three Ways to Request Materials

  1. Browse our Online Catalog and place items on hold
  2. If you know the title and author you’re interested in, or if you’d like our Reader’s Advisors to pick out some titles for you, you can use our online form here to let us know what you’d like
  3. Or give us a call at (973) 538-6161
 

What to Know For Pickup

  • Parking spaces for curbside pickup will be designated near the rear parking lot entrance of the Library.
  • You will be notified via email or phone call when your holds are ready for pickup. Please wait until you are notified to come to the library.
  • When you arrive, please call our main line (973) 538-6161 and provide 1.) your name, 2.) vehicle make and color and 3.) parking spot number.
  • Items will then be brought and placed into your vehicle’s trunk.
    • Please pop your trunk before Library staff arrive to ensure safe social distancing practices!

 

What about returns?

Please place returns in either of our outside return bins. One is located in our parking lot, across from our back door. The other is located at our South Street entrance, to your left if you are facing the automatic doors.

 

Library Hours During Curbside Pickup

Monday-Thursday, 9:15 a.m.-6:45 p.m.
Friday, 9:15 a.m.-4:45 p.m.
Saturday, 10:15 a.m.-1:45 p.m.
Sunday, 1:15 p.m.-4:45 p.m.

 

You can read our more about our current services here.

Curbside Pickup Will Begin Wednesday June 17th

The Library will begin a phased reopening to the public beginning with Curbside Pick-up on Wednesday, June 17th. 
Statement on Library Preparations related to COVID-19 (coronavirus)

In an effort to protect the high-risk populations that we serve, as well as minimize the potential exposure/transmission of COVID-19, The Morristown & Morris Township Library is taking precautions with its reopening to the public and is putting in place a phased reopening to ensure public safety.  This plan is based upon recommendations from the Center for Disease Control, the County of Morris, local health departments, the State of New Jersey, the New Jersey State Library and Library Link NJ in order to reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the community.  We will reassess the situation regularly to ease restrictions and expand services, but it may also be necessary to reinstate restrictions, limit some services or even close the Library facility to ensure public health.  For any information on changes in Library services and hours, please follow updates on the Library’s website at: www.MMTLibrary.org

The Library takes the safety of its patrons and staff seriously, all patrons (especially those in high-risk categories) wishing to use the Library should exercise caution.  The Governor has asked for people to wear facial protection when in public, social distancing of at least six feet from other individuals and frequent hand washing to ensure the virus is not spread.

The Library will begin a phased reopening to the public beginning with curbside pick-up and moving into the opening of the Library building at a later date. Curbside Pick-up will follow the following schedule and procedures:

 

Curbside Pick-up begins Wednesday, June 17

Patrons will be able to pick up library materials by contacting the Library by phone in advance, by placing holds through the online Main catalog [https://catalog.mainlib.org] or you can use our online form, which you can find here.  After placing holds, the Library staff will contact the patron to set up a pick-up time and verify any other additional information. Please wait to come to the Library until you have been notified your holds are ready.  Patrons should call (973) 538-6161 when they arrive, provide 1.) name, 2.) vehicle make and color and 3.) parking spot number and items will be brought and placed into the vehicle’s trunk. Please pop your trunk before Library staff arrive to ensure safe social distancing practices. Parking spaces for curbside pickup will be designated near the rear parking lot entrance of the Library.  Patrons who are not driving to the Library should also call upon arrival and their materials will be brought to a table in the parking lot for their retrieval.

The Library book drops will be open and should be used for the safe return of Library materials.  No Library materials should be returned to the inside of the building.

Please note that the State has stopped statewide delivery of library materials.  Until that resumes, MMT Library patrons will only be able to check out MMT Library materials at our location.     

The hours of curbside delivery at the Library will be between the following hours:

Monday-Thursday, 11:15 a.m.-6:45 p.m.
Friday, 9:15 a.m.-4:45 p.m.
Saturday, 10:15 a.m.-1:45 p.m.
Closed Sundays

 

All library materials that are currently checked out by patrons received auto-renewals and will be charged no fines through July 31.   Patron cards that were set to expire during the Library closure were also extended through July 31.  However, due to the cessation of statewide delivery and possible high patron demand, the Library staff reserve the right to limit the number of items checked out at one time.

All incoming library collection materials will be quarantined for 72 hours and where applicable, cleaned/disinfected before being allowed to be checked out by other patrons.  This is to ensure patron and staff safety, but it will result in a delay in those items being checked out by the next patron.  During this period, items will remain on a patron’s card, but again, no fine will accrue on the patron’s card for these three days. 

The Library’s mission is to remain a resource for our residents.  These safety measures are being taken out of an abundance of caution and to be consistent with recommendations for social distancing. We appreciate our patrons’ patience and understanding. If you have any further questions, please email the Library at info@jfpl.org or call (973) 538-6161. 

Please note that patrons can also access the Library from Home

The Library’s digital services give resident card holders 24/7 free access to many resources:

  • eBooks and electronic audiobooks purchased by the entire MAIN consortium through the Library’s CloudLibrary
  • Magazines, comic books and eBooks from the RB Digital
  • Streaming video movies and documentaries through the Kanopy
  • Children’s eBooks, games, Facts on File database and streaming video for kids via the Children’s Resource page on the Library website.
  • Research databases available through the Library website.
  • Story times, craft ideas, instructional videos and book/film talks available through the Library’s YouTube channel.
  • For patrons who do not currently have a library card, Morristown and Morris Township residents can apply online for a card directly through the Library website.
  • The Library also provides virtual programming from yoga and book clubs to meditation classes to film clubs! Check the Library’s website events page for more information.

 

 

May The 4th Be With You! Resources to Help You Celebrate

May the Fourth be with you

Happy Star Wars Day! If you’re looking for some Star Wars things to do at home today to celebrate, try taking a look at some of these pages!

Our very own Miss Rachel made an instructional video for how to create your very own Baby Yoda Craft

The official Star Wars YouTube channel 

The official “Star Wars Kids” YouTube channel

The “Star Wars Kids” channel has how-to-draw videos and other craft videos, quick summaries of different characters, original short videos aimed at kids, and a series of animated videos called Galaxy of Adventures, which retell key scenes in Star Wars. You can find that last one here.

The “Star Wars Forces of Destiny” series has animated shorts that focus on the many amazing female characters in the galaxy far far away, you can start watching the first in the series here or view the entire series here.

For younger kids, check out a Star Wars storytime with Anthony Daniels, the voice of C-3PO, here.

Also check out the reading that Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano in “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” “Star Wars Rebels,” and “Star Wars Forces of Destiny,” will be doing of her Ahsoka Little Golden Book “I am a Padawan” at 3pm on Instagram Live.

For teens and adults, E.K. Johnston’s Padmé Amidala novel “Queen’s Shadow” is available to download as an ebook for free until May 8th. Find a preview and the link to download here.

 

Quarantine Reading Challenge

Update 6/30/20:

Thank you to all who participated in our Quarantine Reading Challenge! It was a close competition, but the winners have been selected. Our first place winner, Annette Tyler, read 12 books and our second place winner, Diana Merritt, read 11 books. Congratulations to our winners, and well done to all who participated!

 

Have you been reading as much as we have? The staff at the Morristown and Morris Township Library realize that many people have upped their reading while under quarantine. And while being stuck at home isn’t fun, we thought we could make it a bit more fun!

From May 1st-May 31st, we challenge you to read or listen to as many books as you can, and keep a list of how many you have read or heard. At the end of the month, submit your list to us and whoever has read the most books wins! First and second place winners will receive a gift certificate to a local restaurant which is delivering or offering curbside pickup during this time! This contest is for adults only (ages 18 and up) who have a library card with a library in Morris County.

Include in your submission: a list of each book you have read (title and author), your name, address, phone number, email address, and library card number. Only one submission per person. Submissions will be accepted via email or regular mail postmarked by or on June 7th, 2020.

Please email submissions to: amanda.murphy@mmt.mainlib.org

Or mail them to:

Morristown and Morris Township Library
ATTN: Reading Challenge
1 Miller Road
Morristown, NJ
07960

You can keep up with what we’re reading on our Goodreads page. You can access public domain ebooks and audiobooks free with your library card through the RBDigital website or app, and more recent titles free through the Cloud Library app with your library card. 

Resources for Small Businesses Owners During the COVID-19 Outbreak

List compiled by Luis Rodriguez, Director of the Butler Public Library
 
From the Morris County Government site
 
For information regarding financial assistance, please visit the State of New Jersey’s website for businesses and COVID-19 or call 1-800-JERSEY-7. To apply directly to the Small Business Administration for a loan, visit the SBA online loan application.
New! NJDEA Small Business Emergency Assistance Grants are now available! Apply now through April 10
 
Read The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act, which was signed into law on March 27, 2020. 
 
Read The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act, which was signed into law on March 27, 2020. 
 
Did you lose your job or have your hours reduced as a result of COVID-19? Businesses across New Jersey need thousands of workers for immediate hire. Learn more about who is hiring in your community: visit the State of NJ COVID-19 Jobs and Hiring Portal
 
From the NJ Economic Development Authority
 
COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus Information for New Jersey Businesses
 
From the New Jersey Business and Industry Association
 
NJBIA Coronavirus Resource Connection
 
From the Small Business Administration
 
Coronavirus (COVID-19): SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus
 
From the New Jersey Business Advocacy Center
 
COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus Information for New Jersey Businesses
 
From the NJ Small Business Development Center
 
COVID-19/CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION
 

National Poetry Month

Enrich your lives with poetry during April, which is National Poetry Month, and during this time of collective hibernation. You can enjoy the magic of poetry from a variety of online resources!

You can sign up to receive A Poem a Day to be delivered to your email from Knopf Poetry here.

Poets.org also has the option for a poem-a-day sent to your email account if you sign up, or, you can read the daily poem on their website found here. Poets.org is sponsored by The Academy of American poets and has lots of poetry to browse and listen to in addition to the Poem a Day program.

The Poetry Foundation is “an independent literary organization committed to a vigorous presence for poetry in our culture.” As such, they have a large collection of searchable poetry, as well as browseable by theme or era.

The Library of Congress celebrated National Poetry Month in 2015 by launching their Archive of Recorded Poetry and Literature, and have continued to grow their collection since.

Open Culture has a large collection of free, downloadable eBooks which includes poetry classics.

Poet’s House is a poetry library in lower Manhattan, and “is a comfortable, accessible place for poetry—a library and meeting place which invites poets and the public to step into the living tradition of poetry.” They are now offering many of their programs online.

We hope you’ll celebrate with us by enjoying some poetry this month.