Editor's Note: The Times will be running a series of columns from library staff on what they're up to during the coronavirus pandemic.

It certainly feels like we live in a different world now. Going to the grocery store donning a face mask seems so alien, and we’re all struggling to adapt to social distancing, mass unemployment and pandemic anxiety. Mystic and Noank Library staff wishes you good health, safety, peace of mind, and plenty of reading during these difficult times.

Although our doors remain closed to the public, many libraries are still doing our best to serve the community. Remote technology help, virtual programs via Zoom and video tutorials on our YouTube channel are just a few of the services we’re offering.

It’s been encouraging to see people in the community invent new ways to help one another, one of the silver linings of this crisis.

Earlier this month, we loaned our 3D printers out to Dr. Chris Wiles, who launched a GoFundMe campaign to create protective face masks for healthcare workers. The masks are all 3D printed, and designed to be a next-best substitution for the N95 masks nurses and doctors need to safely treat patients.

Throughout May, Francine Figueroa, a licensed clinical social worker, will work with us to offer a virtual program called Healing During A Crisis. You can register on our website to join each Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. This meeting serves as a community support group, a space where people can process, reflect and share stories about the impact this shutdown has had on them.

Please know you can always reach out to us for help finding digital resources, to propose a virtual program or to connect with others in the community. We want to hear from you, and look forward to the day we can reopen our doors!

Contact us at reference@mysticnoanklibrary.org for more information.

Erik Caswell is the adult services librarian at Mystic and Noank Library.