KEYNOTES: Library offers limited indoor browsing
Rosemary Rimkus
After more than a year of COVID-caused imperatives, the staff of the Hudson Public Library is welcoming limited patrons back to its stacks. Head librarian Aileen Sanchez-Himes said capacity of 12 patrons may visit for 20 minutes for general library business, or 30-minute access to the library computers, after they have contacted the library or registered online. Glass partitions are being installed at the service and reference desks.
With the recent closing of the children’s room due to steam pipe breakage, many of the children’s books and services have moved upstairs to the main library, according to children’s librarian Jillian Bennett. “Every one of the children’s room team has done a really incredible job bringing library services to families during this time,” said Bennett, “and I look forward to having patrons back here as soon as possible.”
KEYNOTES: COVID-19 food relief program to scale down
Rosemary Rimkus
Organized in March 2020, when COVID-19-related restrictions first appeared, the Food Relief program at First United Methodist Church continues to serve Hudson families. Hudson resident Stacey Hartford, who has spearheaded the yearlong program, said Food Relief began with two drive-up and delivery events weekly. As of April 16, food delivery will be curtailed to the third Friday of each month.
Hartford said the program was introduced for families who, under pandemic rules, could no longer go the store, and families whose income was reduced. She added that since many have received the COVID vaccine, and meals are available for children in school, the once-a-month delivery has been put in place.