Important Information about Winter Weather & Library Operations

 

Since we are in the winter season and that means winter weather, since Bloomington just had 9-10 inches of snow already in 2025, this is a perfect time to talk about adverse weather as it relates to the library.  Since this is Indiana, we can expect all kinds of weather, especially during the winter.   

What is expected of you during winter weather? - The library is open for normal operations during the winter. This means you are expected to work your shifts or find a sub during times of normal operations.

What happens if classes are cancelled? - There are times when classes may be cancelled but the university will not go to “limited operations” status, which means library operations will continue as normal.  If the library is open, you are expected to work your shifts or find a sub.

What happens if the campus goes to limited operations? - If the campus goes to "limited operations" status, this means only essential personnel are expected to come to work. In this instance, the library will likely close. WE WILL SEND OUT AN EMAIL TO ALL LIBRARY STAFF ABOUT A CLOSURE AND THE EXPECTED RETURN TO NORMAL OPERATIONS.  WATCH YOUR EMAIL!!!

There may be times when we, as supervisors, will make the decision to close the library early and/or open late due to severe weather conditions - This will happen any time the “Monroe County Travel Status” goes to RED meaning they don’t want people traveling on the roads. WE WILL SEND OUT AN EMAIL TO ALL LIBRARY STAFF ABOUT A CLOSURE AND THE EXPECTED RETURN TO NORMAL OPERATIONS.  WATCH YOUR EMAIL!!!

Winter Weather in Bloomington - Please always check the weather and dress appropriately for being outside. Make sure to wear layers, coats, hats, gloves & boots. When walking, walk carefully, watch for ice, slick sidewalks and plan on it taking longer for you to arrive at your destination. If driving, drive slower than normal, plan on longer stopping distances when braking, watch out for other drivers, watch out for slick spots on the roads, and plan on your commute taking longer than usual.

Indiana County Travel Status Map - For information about county travel status during severe weather, you can visit this website: https://www.in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory/

Indiana Trafficwise Website - For information about roads & to see snowplow cameras in real time, visit here https://511in.org/

Please, if you have any questions, please speak with a supervisor.