Mayor Fischer decides to close all library branches, community centers in further effort to slow COVID-19 spread

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer announced Saturday that all Louisville Free Public Library branches and community centers will be closed in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Earlier Saturday afternoon, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said there's a new positive case in Jefferson County, the fourth in the county so far. One of those cases, Beshear said in Frankfort and Fischer later reiterated, has yet to be identified.

Effective immediately, all 17 library branches will be closed. The library had already announced it would wave any fines, and Fischer said patrons should hold on to books and materials until branches reopened.

Closing @LFPL libraries is the right call but very difficult. So many people depend on them. Our best action to shorten ALL closures is to follow public health guidance on social distancing and good hygiene. Looking forward to being back in these spaces as soon as possible. pic.twitter.com/KPfNGa2Jp5
— Bill Hollander (@BillHollander) March 14, 2020

Fischer also decided to close all community centers and the Mary T. Meager Aquatic Center. The only exception is certain branches will be open to distribute meals to seniors in the area. The pickup locations are:

Mondays -- Shawnee Community Center, 607 S. 37th St., 40212
Tuesdays -- Beechmont Community Center, 205 Wellington Avenue, 40214
Wednesdays -- Sun Valley Community Center, 6505 Bethany Lane, 40272; and East Government Center, 200 Juneau Drive, 40243
Thursdays -- Wilderness Road Senior Center, 8111 Blue Lick Road, 40219
Fridays -- Arthur S. Kling Center, 219 W. Ormsby Ave., 40203

Lastly, Fischer said Saturday that the Louisville Zoo is halting its indoor exhibits and rides in an effort to cut down on close contact among zoo visitors.

An update from the Louisville Zoo regarding COVID-19: we are still open but will be closing indoor areas, playgrounds, tram, and carousel as well as ceasing keeper talks to ensure appropriate social distancing. Learn more about what the Zoo is doing at https://t.co/Q3rmqEQQLu pic.twitter.com/eSA9IRT2Ri
— Louisville Zoo (@LouisvilleZoo) March 14, 2020