J.R. Johnson

I’ve often talked about the general excellence of libraries. Today I’d like to make a specific comment, and it’s not even about books.

Sad news: Mr Man is still not feeling great.

Good news: He was able to get a same-day appointment with our doctor. 

But. 

Our doctor will only see symptomatic patients if you have a negative Covid test in hand. Ok, fine, I guess. Our health care providers and system have been under massive pressure for years. 

Except. 

The holidays cooked up a stew of respiratory illnesses and a significant portion of Ottawa’s Capital Region is down for the count. Our wastewater numbers are right up there with the highest levels since tracking started in 2020. Finding cough medicine has become the equivalent of a treasure hunt. And finding a Covid rapid test? That’s more like the Holy Grail. 

None of the pharmacies I called had any tests in stock. They’d be happy to schedule us for Covid boosters, but we already have those. Our local health unit should have tests but is halfway across the city.

Where to find a rapid test? The library came through for us. Not just a home for books and music, maker spaces and digital resources, the library is also bringing this now necessary resource into our neighborhoods.

I walked into our local branch to find a stack of rapid tests on a table by the door. The librarian couldn’t see my grin under my mask, but it was there.

And good news! Mr Man’s test is negative and now he can get the healthcare he needs.

Thanks, library. You saved the day.

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