If you were hoping to find a free rapid COVID-19 tests from the province at one of Durham’s libraries, you’re out of luck.
It was recently announced the tests would be available at libraries, but the Ministry of Health has now clarified that’s only the case in certain higher risk areas, which does not include Durham Region.
If that changes, many branches throughout the region say they’ll share the news on social media.
One librarian reached out to Durham Radio News and said they’ve been overwhelmed with calls and people showing up, only to leave empty-handed.
? At this time, Pickering Public Library has not received any information about our library branches being designated a distribution site for Covid tests.
? Find free Covid-19 rapid antigen tests during the holiday season at: https://t.co/eFZ7VFxzRQ pic.twitter.com/qbsGGSqZF6
— Pickering Public Library (@pickeringlibs) December 16, 2021
We’re getting quite a few inquiries about this. The province has clarified that only libraries in areas deemed higher risks will receive rapid tests. This does *not* include Durham Region right now.
So no rapid tests here, but we will keep you posted if that changes. https://t.co/JhOG5HFopo
— Whitby Public Library (@whitbylibrary) December 17, 2021
❗ Please Note: The Ministry of Health has clarified that tests through all public libraries is not planned, and will only be made available in select higher risk areas. These kits are not available at OPL at this time. We will share new info when it becomes available.
— oshawalibraries (@OshawaLibraries) December 17, 2021
Please note we have not been contacted about being a designated a distribution site for COVID rapid tests. We will continue to update our social media and website with information as it becomes available. More info: https://t.co/c3cXQgKI6B | https://t.co/N2cTwmNVqk
— Clarington Library (@ClaringtonLib) December 16, 2021
Looks like media are back to the “Full Panic Mode” regarding Covid and perfect timing with the holidays.
Time for me to enjoy some fun with a lengthy sun holiday as per planned.
Happy Holidays!
Lol, should we have expected anything different from a premier who ran on a platform of “Buck-a-beer”. Does he even know what a library is. Anyways this is probably just a municipal health unit issue anyways, and it sort of suites Durham Region where the Liquor stores are always busier then the libraries. Very classy Durham Region.
Why not hand them out at weed stores. There are more of them in Oshawa then there are LCBO outlets.