Coronavirus Update, August 12, 2020

As of August 11, the Tompkins County Public Library is offering limited Internet and self-service copy, fax, and print services. Previously, TCPL was making their computers available for county residents who have not yet completed the census. Now, visitors of all ages will be able to use the internet for 30 minutes a day to not only complete their Census, but can also fill out job applications, work on their resume and check their email.

According to the TCPL website, computers are available on Tuesday and Thursday from 10am-1PM, and then again from 3PM-6PM. On Saturdays, the computers will be available from 10am-1PM, and then from 2-5PM. 

Due to the pandemic, guests are required to enter in the south entrance, and masks and social distancing will be required. Employees will sanitize the computers between uses.  

The Tompkins County Public Library is located at 101 East Green St in Ithaca.

Looking at the local COVID-19 caseload, there are no new cases of the virus confirmed in Tompkins as of Tuesday, and 2 additional recoveries. According to the County Health Department, that leaves 11 active cases of COVID-19 in Tompkins.

In Schuyler County, again there are no new cases of COVID-19 reported as of Wednesday, according to their Health Department. All active cases have recovered.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, or DEC, is reminding hikers to respect and protect the natural wildlife of the Adirondack and Catskill state parks.

The advisory put out by the State DEC asserts that visitor traffic at both parks are at an all-time high this summer.  DEC officials state that the increased numbers of people looking to recreate at the parks, has led to increased amounts of trash and trampling of sensitive natural areas.

Adirondack Park contains some of New York’s most rare plants in its High Peaks Wilderness.  DEC officials remind hikers to follow regulations pertaining to camping.  Some are: to pack out one’s trash, not camp on summits, and to leash dogs.

DEC also advises park visitors to treat its workers with respect.  The agency encourages witnesses to report instances of harassment and help defend park employees and volunteers.

Additionally, the DEC advises park visitors to follow their new motto, “Play Smart, Play Safe, Play Local”.  This advisory emphasizes that people follow the rules at parks, staying home if you are sick, and wearing a mask when you cannot maintain social distance.

Contributing writing by WRFI News Contributor Esther Racoosin