Dear Raising A Reader Network,
Raising A Reader continues to monitor the ongoing development of information and research regarding the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Recently, a new study emerged that concluded that COVID-19 has the capability to remain viable for multiple days on various surfaces, such as plastic, cardboard and cloth. NPR: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/03/14/811609026/the-new-coronavirus-can-live-on-surfaces-for-2-3-days-heres-how-to-clean-them
With the knowledge of this latest information, and out an abundance of caution, Raising A Reader recommends that all Affiliates pause the rotation of the Red Book Bags until further notice. While book bag rotation is paused, materials can be sanitized using the Book Bag Handling and Care information provided below.
Book Bag Handling and Care for Bags Purchased 2017-2020
Book Bag Handling and Care for Bags Purchased before 2017
Additionally, six Bay Area counties in California have been ordered to “shelter in place” until April 6. The Raising A Reader National office and warehouse, located in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties, fall within the restricted area. While the RAR team will continue to provide technical assistance and support from home, the warehouse will cease all shipments from now until April 6. Orders can continue to be placed during this time and we will work diligently to expedite the shipping process once the county ordinance has been lifted.
Finally, the Raising A Reader Programs team will hold an idea sharing and Q&A webinar on Friday, March 20th and Friday, March 27th from 11 AM-12 PM PST (2 PM-3PM EST). Join us to share your ideas or ask questions about your Raising A Reader program planning and implementation during this COVID-19 pandemic. Register to join either webinar by clicking below.
March 20: COVID-19 Roundtable with RAR Programs Team
March 27: COVID-19 Roundtable with RAR Programs Team
Should you have any questions, please contact your trusted Raising A Reader portfolio manager, or send a message to our programs team at rarinquiry@raisingareader.org.
We will continue to monitor and update you on the status of our warehouse operations, as well as any other updates as new information unfolds.
Stay safe and healthy!
Kindest Regards,
Michelle Torgerson and the Raising A Reader team
