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Updates on Fall 2021 library reopening

Library health & safety information

*Those who are neither fully vaccinated nor enrolled in the rapid screening program by September 13, cannot come to any University premises.* This includes our libraries.

  • The health and safety of our staff and library users is our highest priorityimage of ucheck self assessment screens
  • To make our in-person services as safe as possible, we have implemented the following measures at Robarts Library and the Gerstein Science Information Centre
  • These measures are based on the provincial regulation and public health guidance, and we are following the University’s 12-step plan for a safe return to campus
  • In-person services are available to current students, faculty, and staff of the University of Toronto only
  • Some libraries have additional conditions for who may enter the library. Check here

Vaccination status & rapid screening  |  TCards & UCheck requirement  |  Limited access  |  Physical distancing  |  Masks & barriers  |  Hand sanitizer & cleaning

    Vaccination status & rapid screening

    • All members of our community who come to U of T campuses in Fall 2021 – including use of library spaces – must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19
    • They are expected to: 1) have their first dose by September 13 and 2) have their second dose by October 15
    • This requirement aligns with the recent recommendations of the Council of Ontario Medical Officers of Health for post-secondary institutions in Ontario and the sector’s response
    • Proof of vaccination must be uploaded to UCheck – our online self-assessment tool.
    • The vaccine declaration & upload system is available as of September 6th – please retain all vaccination records in preparation for uploading
    • Individuals awaiting for their final vaccine dose, or who have received a University-approved exemption, must participate in the University’s rapid screening program and may be subject to additional safety measures. More information on this process coming soon

    TCards & UCheck requirement

    • Anyone entering Robarts and Gerstein must scan in with their TCards mask how to poster
    • They must also show a green UCheck screen, which verifies their risk status
    • There are two ways that individuals can complete the required self-assessment and generate a risk status:
    • Library users should consult other libraries websites for their UCheck/TCard requirements

    Limited access to spaces

    • To limit occupancy and help slow the spread of COVID-19, access to University of Toronto library buildings is restricted to current U of T students, faculty, and staff only
    • We are awaiting further guidance from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities about capacity limits, and we will continue to follow local public health guidance

    Physical distancing

    • Physical distancing protocols are currently in place, with 2-metre spaced decals posted on the ground
    • There are arrows and signs to show where to walk and stand in order to keep a 2-metre distance from others
    • Stanchions are used to manage line-ups and traffic flows in and out of Robarts and Gerstein
    • Signage on table space will indicate maximum number of people per table 
    • We are awaiting further guidance from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities about physical distancing, and we will continue to follow local public health guidance

      Masks & barriers

      • Face masks are required in all indoor spaces – including our libraries – see updated U of T policy and guidelines
      • Library staff wear masks, and public-facing service points have plexiglass barriers

      Hand sanitizer & cleaninground blue sign saying 'wait here'

      • Hand sanitizer is available for library users
      • Washrooms are cleaned nightly

      ––Last updated September 7, 2021