COLUMBUS—Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) is providing a small collection of library materials to Battelle for testing as part of a new partnership spearheaded by the Institute of Museum & Library Services (IMLS). Battelle researchers will test strains of the COVID-19 coronavirus on the items to assess the virus’s longevity. The goal is to determine best practices for the safe handling of materials moving forward.

“We are so fortunate in central Ohio to be surrounded by such forward-thinking industry leaders at Battelle and OCLC,” said CML CEO Patrick Losinski. “The work we do here will have far-reaching implications for public libraries around the state, country and even the world, ensuring that our important work can resume in a way that is safe for our communities.”

More details, as well as the anticipated timeline of results and information, will be available in the coming weeks. For the latest updates, subscribe to IMLS news and visit imls.gov/coronavirus.

Visit CML’s new and frequently updated COVID-19 Coronavirus Response web page for information on everything from foodbanks, internet service providers, volunteer opportunities, home learning options for the whole family and much more.

All locations remain closed through at least May 2 due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. It advances, supports and empower America’s museums, libraries and related organizations through grant-making, research and policy development. OCLC’s vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit imls.gov and follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

OCLC is a nonprofit global library cooperative providing shared technology services, original research and community programs so that libraries can better fuel learning, research and innovation. Through OCLC, member libraries cooperatively produce and maintain WorldCat, a comprehensive global network of data about library collections and services. Libraries gain efficiencies through OCLC’s WorldShare, a complete set of library management applications and services built on an open, cloud-based platform. It is through collaboration and sharing of the world’s collected knowledge that libraries can help people find answers they need to solve problems. Together as OCLC, member libraries, staff and partners make breakthroughs possible.

Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit battelle.org.

Columbus Metropolitan Library has served the people of Franklin County, Ohio since 1873. With its Main Library and 22 branches, CML is well known for signature services and programs like Homework Help, Reading Buddies, Summer Reading Challenge and Ready for Kindergarten. The library’s Strategic Plan supports the vision of “a thriving community where wisdom prevails,” which positions CML to respond to areas of urgent need: kids unprepared for kindergarten, third grade reading proficiency, high school graduation, college and career readiness and employment resources.

CML was named a 2011 National Medal Winner by the Institute for Museum and Library Services for work in community service, the highest honor for libraries and museums. CML was also named 2010 Library of the Year by Library Journal.