Grand Rapids Public Library Closed Due to Coronavirus Concerns

All Grand Rapids Public Library locations are closed for the foreseeable future starting Saturday, March 14, 2020, due to COVID-19 concerns and Governor Whitmer's recommendation that Michigan residents avoid meeting in large groups of more than 100 people.

GRPL has eight branches throughout West Michigan.

Director John McNaughton said in a statement,

The health and safety of Grand Rapids Public Library patrons and staff is my top priority...

To protect our patrons and staff—especially the high-risk populations we serve—starting Saturday, March 14, we will be closing all GRPL locations to the public for the foreseeable future.

He adds that due dates are extended and fines are waived on on material. Patrons can return items to outside book returns or keep the material until they reopen to the public.

GRPL does have free digital services that can be used remotely, such as e-books and e-audiobooks; streaming TV, movie and music services; research databases; and digital subscriptions to newspapers and magazines.