Coronavirus Updates
We thank the community for their patience while the library transitions. With over 30,000 cardholders, hundreds of thousands of print materials circulating, and serving a population of over 100,000, the library is a complex system. Librarians are working hard to institute precautions in facilities that will keep us all safe into the future.
Librarians are always available by phone or email: Monday–Friday 10-6. To get in touch with a librarian, email asklib@imagineiflibraries.org or call 406-758-5820.
Got questions? Check out our FAQ section.
RECOMMENDED SITES FROM OUR LIBRARIANS
ImagineIF COVID-19 Reference Guide
This ready reference guide provides current and reliable information about ongoing changes to Flathead Valley community services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://imagineiflibraries.libguides.com/flatheadcovid19resources
FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC
Center for Disease Control (CDC)
Situation summary and overview of the outbreak
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
MedLine Plus
Basic guide to preventing and responding to coronavirus
https://medlineplus.gov/coronavirusinfections.html
National Library of Medicine
A portal to research and current data on COVID-19
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/index.html#Novel_Coronavirus
FOR EMPLOYERS AND WORKERS
US Chamber of Commerce Foundation
A quick response guide for employers
Factsheet for employees
https://www.uschamber.com/sites/default/files/coronavirus_workplace_tips_for_employees.pdf
FOR INFORMATION ON THE LOCAL RESPONSE
Flathead City County Health Department
Stay up to date on current response and infections in Flathead County
https://flatheadhealth.org/novel-coronavirus-covid-19/
Updates and information about Montana’s response to COVID-19
https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/cdepi/diseases/coronavirusmt
AVOIDING AND IDENTIFYING MISINFORMATION ABOUT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
NewsGuard
A list of websites that have shared inaccurate information about coronavirus
https://www.newsguardtech.com/coronavirus-misinformation-tracking-center/
World Health Organization
Infographics explaining common myths about coronavirus
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters
FAQs
Q: When will you reopen?
A: We are currently open at locations with new open hours and special hours for the vulnerable population. Find out more here.
Q: My holds are saying ready for pickup. Is there a way I can get them?
A: You can pick them up during our new open hours or call for curbside pick up. Find out more here.
Q: Can I return library books?
A: Yes. Our book drops are now open 24 hours.
Q: I have fines and my account is blocked. Can my account be opened so I can download books?
A: We have unblocked as many accounts as possible. If you’re having trouble using your account, please email your library card number to us at asklib@imagineiflibraries.org and we will do our best to unblock your account.
Q: Can I get a library card online?
A: Yes. Sign up for a card HERE and you will have instant access to all of our online resources.
Q: Is the Wi-Fi still on at your buildings?
A: Yes. You can access it from outside the building at any time in Bigfork and Kalispell. In Columbia Falls, Wi-Fi is available from 6am-10pm.
Q: How do I get ebooks and audiobooks?
A: Download the Libby App on your mobile device and follow the in–app instructions. For more information, visit Libby.
On a computer, go to Montana Library2Go and sign in with your library card.
If you need a library card, sign up for one HERE.
Q: Do you have databases I can access?
A: Yes. You can work on genealogy, read news articles, find book suggestions and more. Check out our list of databases and other online resources HERE.
Q: Do you have resources for parents to use with their children?
A: Yes!
For teens: https://imagineiflibraries.org/for-you/teens/
For kids: https://imagineiflibraries.org/for-you/kids/
And check out our YouTube page for early literacy classes and other activities!
Q: How can I show my support of the library?
A: Reach out on Facebook and Instagram to show your support. You can also donate to the ImagineIF Library Foundation at any time.