Skip to Main Content
Campus Library Logo

COVID-19 Updates

UPDATED - Face Coverings

Do I have to wear a mask inside the library?

It depends. According to the UW Face Coverings policy, face coverings are required in some UW facilities, on shuttles, and personnel and students who test positive for COVID-19 or been in close contact with someone who tests positive.

I forgot my mask. Where can I get one?

A mask dispenser is located at the entrance to the library.

What type of mask should I wear?

A face covering will protect you and others, and meets state requirements when it:

  • Fits snugly against the sides of the face
  • Completely covers the nose and mouth
  • Can be secured with ties, ear loops, elastic bands or other equally effective method
  • Has at least two layers of material
  • Has a nose wire to prevent air from leaking out of the top of the mask (recommended)
  • Allows you to breathe without restriction
  • Is capable of being laundered (if made of cloth)
  • Is free of holes, tears or valves that could release droplets

The following types do not provide adequate protection and do not meet state requirements:

  • Bandanas
  • Neck gators
  • Face coverings with holes, tears or openings
  • Respirator with an exhalation valve
  • Face shield (when a facemask is not also worn)

A mask dispenser is available at the entrance to the library building. For more information on choosing and wearing masks properly, please review the Facemasks Focus Sheet.

UPDATED - Food and Beverages

Can I eat in the library? Can I eat in the study rooms?

Yes, food is allowed in most areas of the library. However, the following restrictions apply:

  • Food is not allowed near Library computers
  • Food is not allowed near book and media shelves
  • Food is not allowed in the Third Floor Reading Room
  • Avoid foods and beverages that could damage materials
  • Avoid foods that could disturb others
  • Remove or dispose of all trash before leaving

Though food and beverages are allowed in specific areas, disruptive behavior is not allowed in the building. If food odors are bothersome to other users, or if food and beverage types pose a threat to the preservation of collections, staff will take appropriate steps to discontinue the disruption. See the UW Libraries Code of Conduct for more information.

What if I spill my food or drink?

Please report large spills to Library Staff so that proper cleanup can occur. Staff are located at the following locations:

  • 1st Floor Information desk, or by calling 425-352-5340
  • 3rd Floor LB1-310 Library Administration Office, or by calling 425-352-5243

Can I drink in the library?

Yes, with conditions. For the safety of library computers and collections we ask that you only use covered beverage containers while in the library building.

COVID-19 symptoms

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The symptoms of COVID-19 may include: fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, chills, loss of taste or smell, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea. 

If you have any of these symptoms, stay home and get tested - even if you are vaccinated.

What should I do if I feel unwell?

If you are sick with any potential illness, you must stay home, regardless of your vaccination status.

Follow the UW guidance for what to do if you feel sick and how to get tested for COVID-19.

Consult the COVID-19 Flowchart to know when to report illness and close contact exposure, when to get tested, and when to stay home.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Is hand sanitizer available?

Yes. Several hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the Campus Library buiding. Hand sanitizer is also available along the public services desk and in the Information Commons on the first floor of the library to use before or after interactions with library staff, printing, and using computers.

Will the study rooms be cleaned between reservations?

Cleaning supplies will be supplied in public spaces throughout the Campus Library building. Students and visitors are welcome to use these supplies to clean surfaces in the study rooms before and/or after use.

Facilities staff will continue daily cleaning of library spaces, including study rooms, and add increased frequency of cleaning high touch points.

Will study tables and carrels be cleaned between uses?

Cleaning supplies will be supplied in public spaces throughout the Campus Library building. Students and visitors are welcome to use these supplies to clean study table and carrel surfaces before and/or after use.

Facilities staff will continue daily cleaning of library spaces, including study tables and carrels, and add increased frequency of cleaning high touch points

What are high touch points?

High touch surfaces can include tables, handrails, faucets, doorknobs, light switches, kitchen appliances, drinking fountains, and shared equipment and computer workstations.

The Library Building

Can I open a window in the library to increase airflow?

No. The Campus Library building does not have windows that open. However, building airflow has been adjusted to allow for the maximum amount of outside airflow.

Are there air purifiers in the library?

Yes. Air purifiers have been added to all classrooms and the individual, media, and group study rooms located throughout the library building. Please do not adjust the settings on the air purifiers. They have been set by EH&S to maximize air purification.

Are the air dryers in the restrooms safe to use?

Air dryers in the restroom are safe to use, and all three UW campuses have been authorized to keep the hand dryers in place. The CDC recommends that after hands are washed with soap and water that they be dried thoroughly with an approved drying method, which includes paper towels or hand blowers. Please visit the CDC website for more information.