Governor DeWine Issues Statewide Mask Order

thank you for wearing a mask

Per Gov. Mike DeWine's announcement, the Mount Gilead Public Library will require all able individuals to wear a mask. Children under 10 may be in the library without a mask, though wearing one is highly recommended.

We will continue to limit the number of people in the library at one time as well as continuing with our already in place social distancing measures. Curbside pick-up remains an option for all current card holders.

The library reserves the right to limit the amount of time people not wearing masks are in the library and the number of unmasked people. For instance, computer users will be limited to no more than 10 minutes if they are not wearing an approved facial covering. Additionally, no more than two unmasked people will be permitted in the library at the same time. 

 

 

STATEWIDE MASK ORDER

Governor DeWine announced that beginning on Thursday, July 23, at 6:00 p.m., a statewide mask mandate will go into effect for citizens living in all 88 Ohio counties. 

"Our preliminary data indicate that the rate of increase in new cases has slowed in the high-risk counties where masks are already mandated, so we are cautiously optimistic that things are heading in the right direction," said Governor DeWine. "We believe that requiring masks statewide will make a significant difference and will be key to making sure other counties do not progress to a higher level of increased spread."

All individuals in Ohio must wear facial coverings in public at all times when:

  • At an indoor location that is not a residence
  • Outdoors, but unable to maintain six-foot social distance from people who are not household members
  • Waiting for, riding, driving, or operating public transportation, such as a taxi, a car service, or a private car used for ride-sharing.

The order only requires those 10 years old or older to wear a mask. Additional exclusions include: 

  • Those with a medical condition or a disability or those communicating with someone with a disability;
  • Those who are actively exercising or playing sports;
  • Those who are officiants at religious services;
  • Those who are actively involved in public safety; or
  • Those who are actively eating or drinking.