My research indicates the virus may be active for 48 hours but they really don't know for sure. Disaster preparedness materials suggest having all library materials returned to the book drop and not left at the circulation desk. This reduces the amount of
transmission. Once or twice a day (depending on your traffic) someone will need to wear gloves and retrieve the materials from the box. Isolate them with bags or storage bins for at least 48 hours before returning them to circulation. The gloves should be
disposed of and then hands washed thoroughly.
If anyone has better advice, I'd love to hear it. We're working on the same issues here at Detroit Mercy.
Sara Armstrong
Sara Armstrong, Associate Dean
For Technical Services, Library Systems and Archive Director