Sewickley Public Library cancels children's programs due to covid concerns, staffing issues

Sewickley Public Library has suspended all children’s in-person programs for the month due to rising covid concerns and staffing shortages.

The library serves about 750 children a month through its programs and outreach services at various schools throughout the Quaker Valley area.

“We’re just hoping to resume services in February and hoping everyone stays safe and healthy,” said Jen Farmerie, children’s department head.

Families can still come to the library, check out materials and use the computers. Teen and adult programs are still on schedule.

All staffers wear masks and patrons are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings.

Executive director Carolyn Toth said it is unclear when in-person activities for the library’s youngest readers would resume.

“We will return to Children’s programming as soon as we can, and that will most likely be determined by the covid numbers in Allegheny County,” she said. “I think you will find that we are not the only library to delay programming as the covid cases increase.”

Another thing that may speed up the process of resuming programs is adding staff.

The library is looking to hire circulation clerks and a part-time reference librarian. About 45 to 50 people work at the library, including 10 full-time and the rest part-time.

“We are experiencing a staffing shortage,” Toth said. “One cause may be due to the fear of covid, but what we are truly noting is the fact that there are so many job openings in all fields that some of the jobs may be more attractive or financially rewarding to prospective employees than what we offer; so we cannot retain some of our hourly people. Our salaries and pay rates are competitive with other libraries in the area, so I truly believe it’s due to all employers looking for help.”

Hours of operation remain the same despite the staffing issues.

The library is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 1-5 p.m. Sunday.

Toth said they may have to reduce hours if more employees cannot report to work.

Farmerie said there will be a post on the library’s website and social media pages, and in its February newsletter, informing families if children’s programs will return next month.

Until then, folks can view videos of previous programs on the library’s YouTube page.

More information about library activities and possible employment is available at sewickleylibrary.org.