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Libraries in Farmville, Buckingham and Cumberland have announced temporary closures in response to concerns surrounding the novel coronavirus.

Rick Ewing, director of the Central Virginia Regional Library, announced March 16 that the library’s Farmville and Buckingham locations will be closed until April 1 at the earliest.

Ewing said some library services are still available. Telephone service can be used Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Individuals can call the library for help using free downloads through its website, answering reference questions and any other information to help residents get through this temporary closure.

He added free and fast WiFi is always available outside of the libraries, and that library card holders can download free books, music, movies and audiobooks for all ages through OVERDRIVE, HOOPLA and RBDIGITAL.

Individuals can log on to www.cvrl.net and look under downloads for more information and help getting started.

Library-goers can still use the library’s WiFi to access ancestrylibrary.com for genealogy resources and other great databases. The book drops remain open for item returns, but no fine on items will be levied while the libraries are closed.

The Cumberland County Public Library (CCPL) announced Sunday, March 15, that it will be closed to the public until March 30.

All scheduled CCPL classes and activities are cancelled or will be postponed to a later date. Use of the public meeting room by all groups is canceled, and the volunteer program is suspended until the library reopens.

The library’s AARP Tax Aide program is suspended until further notice.

Public use of the wireless network is still available outside to patrons with the network password.

All CCPL returned items should be placed in the silver book return at the back of the building. Renewals can be handled through the library’s online catalog and by phone or email.

The library additionally announced that holds can be placed on materials using the online catalog, and no more than two items may be placed on hold by phone. Once a hold is placed and the individual has been notified that the item is available, they can call to make arrangements to pick it up at the back door only.

It is important to note library staff will not search for available items by phone. They will only place a hold on items requested.

Emergency situations may be discussed by phone with the CCPL director and will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Patrons can call the library at (804) 492-5807 or contact CCPL by email at cumberlandlibraryva@gmail.com for more information or further assistance.

Staff will be available by phone or email from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday only.