Free face masks available at local branches of Bruce County Library

If you need a face mask, you can now pick up a free handmade one at the Bruce County Public Library branches in Kincardine, Tiverton, Ripley or Lucknow.

“Recognizing that purchasing quality masks may be a financial burden for families and that obtaining or sourcing good-quality face masks in small communities can sometimes be difficult, the library teamed up with community crafters and the Grey-Bruce chapter of Canada Sews to provide face masks in all 17 library branches,” said Brooke McLean, director of library services with the Bruce County Public Library

“Exceeding all expectations, these volunteers generously produced hundreds of face masks for distribution through all our libraries,” said McLean. “Along with connecting community mask-makers, the library was also able to source fabric and other materials locally and support local businesses.”

All the masks are made with 100-per-cent cotton and adhere to the recommended Health Canada standards. Masks are packaged individually, labelled as child or adult, and include information for best practices for wear and care, according to Health Canada guidelines. The library aims to continue this project for as long as face masks are recommended as a safety measure in Ontario.

“This project perfectly exemplifies how the library fills the role as a community hub; a place where people can find information and services beyond books," said Nancy Kuhl, branch services and programs co-ordinator at the Bruce County Public Library.

"We are extremely pleased but not surprised, by the response we’ve received as Bruce County residents once again show their vast capacity for looking after and helping one another, and we are very pleased to help facilitate that connection.”

As this program is ongoing, the library is grateful for any additional volunteers who would like to be a part of the initiative. For more information on how to get involved, call 519-832-6935, E-mail libraryinfo@brucecounty.on.ca or contact your local branch. Materials can be supplied at the sewer's request.

All 17 branches of the Bruce County Public Library have been re-opened to the public. A focus on safety of staff and patrons continues to be the library’s top priority, and branch hours of service will remain reduced to allow for additional cleaning. Curb-side pick-up is still available for those who do not wish to enter the branches at this time.

To learn more about the library, visit the website at library.brucecounty.on.ca or visit any of the 17 branches.