The results of Tests 7 and 8 have been released. Both tests measured attenuation of the COVID-19 virus on hardcover book covers (buckram cloth, stacked configuration), softcover book covers (coated paper, stacked configuration), Plastic protective covers(Biaxially oriented polyester film, stacked configuration) and Expanded polyethylene foam (1-inch, unstacked configuration) at temperatures both higher and lower than the ambient temperatures (68 to 75°F; 20 to 24°C) used in Tests 1-6. Test 7 was held at temperatures of 34 to 36°F (1 to 4°C) while Test 8 was held at temperatures of 83 to 84°F (28 to 29°C). Results showed that attenuation rates for materials held at the colder temperatures were significantly slower compared to the warmer and ambient temperatures. The report can be found at https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/realm/documents/test-7-8-report.pdf.
In addition, the recording of the 29 January REALM webinar, “Project Update and Community Reflections,” is now available on demand at https://www.webjunction.org/events/webjunction/realm-update-reflections.html.
There are also some new toolkit resources:
A synthesis of information from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on cleaning and disinfecting considerations public spaces, surfaces, and objects: https://www.oclc.org/realm/resources/cleaning-considerations.html.
A synthesis of information in reopening plans that have been generously shared by libraries, archives, and museums: https://www.oclc.org/realm/resources/reopening-considerations.html.
A collection of curated information and resources about vaccines that can help to answer common COVID-19-related questions: https://www.oclc.org/realm/resources/vaccine-roundup.html.
A collection of resources to help provide guidance on social distancing measures while serving the public and keeping staff safe: https://www.oclc.org/realm/resources/social-distancing-roundup.html.
A collection of examples and resources for conducting successful virtual programs and meeting people where they are—online: https://www.oclc.org/realm/resources/virtual-programs-roundup.html.
Finally, Literature Review 3.1 of SARS-CoV-2 research published through November 2020 has been completed and can be found at https://www.oclc.org/realm/research/phase-3-systematic-literature-review.html.