Severe Weather Closing Guidelines |
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The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library rarely closes for severe weather in accordance with our commitment to public service. The following guidelines pertain to all aspects of public service including the Arlington Branch and the bookmobile.
Level 1 Alert– Roadways are hazardous, drive with extreme caution. The Library Response The main library and branch will maintain regular hours and closely monitor the developing weather conditions. The bookmobile will not travel. Level 2 Advisory – Roadways are extremely hazardous with blowing and drifting snow and/or flooding. Only those who feel it is necessary to travel should be on the roadways. The Library Response The main library and branch will maintain limited hours and closely monitor the developing weather conditions. The bookmobile will not travel. We will open at 11:00 A.M. to allow snow to be removed from walkways. Employees will begin work at 9:30 A.M. Closing will be at 5:00 P.M. to allow employees to travel safely. Fines will cease to accrue until 3 working days after the emergency conditions have ended. Whenever possible pick up dates for reserve items will be extended and items renewed via phone. Level 3 Emergency – Most roadways are closed and extremely hazardous/flooded. Employees should comply with workplace policies or contact their employer. Violators may be cited. The Library Response All library services will close, including the branch and bookmobile. Employees are encouraged to remain in their homes and off the roads. The book drop will also be closed to discourage patrons from travelling. All fines will cease to accrue and services times extended as detailed above. Snow clearance in walkways and parking lots will be at the discretion of the Facilities Manager. Employees and patrons should monitor the situation via local media announced closings. Exceptions to the Policy The Library Director, at his or her discretion, may override the above policies if it appears that weather conditions are improving or worsening and he or she believes a change in the level designation from the Sheriff’s Department is imminent. In the event that a decision is made to supersede the policy all affected staff members will be contacted. Condition 2 - Flooding Flooding is occasionally a situation requiring closing when the Blanchard River reaches flood level. The Facilities Manager will closely monitor the situation and recommend measures to be taken depending upon the serious nature of the flood. Standing water in any area requires closing the facility to the public. Staff is expected to assist in flood damage control as necessary. Closing is at the discretion of the Director and/or the Manager on Duty in the event the Director is unavailable.
Condition 3 - Tornadoes and Other Hazardous Conditions Closing is at the discretion of the Director and/or the Manager on Duty in the event the Director is unavailable. Revised by the Board of Trustees February 17, 2009 ALWAYS CALL AHEAD RADIO STATIONS IN THE FINDLAY-HANCOCK COUNTY AREA: Blanchard River Water Level Link
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