Amid COVID-19, Islanders begin flocking to P.E.I. libraries online, of course

In the week since libraries closed their doors across the province in an effortto mitigate the spread ofCOVID-19, P.E.I.'s libraries have seen a spike in applications for library cards, as Islanders look to access reading materials online.

Thursday and Friday, librarians processed 75 applications for membership.

"People are definitelytaking an interest in the e-resources that we have available,"said Roseanne Gauthier, the youth services librarian with P.E.I.'s Public Library Service.

"And we anticipate that number will just continue to grow over the coming weeks."

Gauthier said with a library card, Islanders can borrowe-books and e-audio books to keep themselves educated, entertained and distracted as they practice social distancing.

The library's online offering reflects what is physically on P.E.I.'s libraryshelves, she said.

How to get a library card

Gauthier saidIslanders looking to get a library cardcan visit the province's website and type "library card" in the search bar. Once they arrive on the library card page, they will be directed to fill out an online form.

I think it's absolutely essential right now. Roseanne Gauthier

"If you fill out that application form now and you give us your email address, we'll send you a library card number within one to two business days," Gauthier explained.

She said people who have a library card but have misplaced itcan check the status of their card by emailing the library or reaching out through the library's Facebook page.

Gauthier also noted there are many online resources people can access without a library card, including animated e-books forchildren, math resources, audio and e-books targeted for teens and even romance novels for older readers.

She said libraries will be sharingactivities on their social media pages to help keep Islanders educated and entertained as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves.

"I think it's absolutely essential right now," Gauthier said.

COVID-19: What you need to know

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Cough.
• Tiredness.

But more serious symptoms can develop, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia, which can lead to death.

What should I do if I feel sick?

Isolate yourself andcall your local public health authority. Do not visit an emergency room or urgent care centre to get tested.

How can I protect myself?

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Be aware ofevolving travel advisoriesto different regions.

More detailed information on the outbreak is available on thefederal government's website.

More COVID-19 stories from CBC P.E.I.