Bringing Programs to Residents’ Homes: Virtual Programming @ MCPL during COVID-19

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2021

Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL), MD, developed and launched virtual programming to deliver a fuller complement of online services during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Montgomery County schools and offices closed, MCPL promptly responded to the need for continued support in early literacy, workforce development and community-building efforts. Designed and implemented by a cross-departmental ad-hoc task force, virtual programming at MCPL had the following goals: to expand access to early literacy resources; to strengthen workforce development; and to present topical, relevant community engagement programming for residents of Montgomery County. To help “fill the gap” created by closing daycares and pre-schools as well as addressing job insecurities posed by COVID-19, MCPL initially prioritized producing daily virtual storytimes and workforce development programs. MCPL is committed to sustained free community services to connect residents to ideas and information that enrich their lives.