By Bill

As I write this, we are far enough into the pandemic that Delaware has announced plans for phase 1 of  reopening. I live in Pennsylvania and the last time I was at the Society was on March 27th, 2 days before Governor Carney announced there would be a required 14 day quarantine for anyone entering Delaware from another state.

With all the beautiful weather this Spring, I’ve missed taking lunches in the Square with its historic buildings and blooming trees.

I was glad to be at the Society one last time before the restriction, because I was able to complete a collections care project that had been in the works for a while – the disposal of some collections material that could potentially harm staff and other collections. It was also a nice day, and because the materials had to be submerged in water using an outdoor hose connection, I was able to spend most of my time in Willingtown Square. With all the beautiful weather this Spring, I’ve missed taking lunches in the Square with its historic buildings and blooming trees.

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If I’m able to return to onsite work soon, I’ll be thinking of these small pleasures and of those more deeply affected by the pandemic. I’ve been lucky to continue my work, doing what I can from home, but like most of us I’ve had family and friends who have lost jobs in the service industry or who have worked in hospitals with COVID-19 patients. This seems small as well, but my first task onsite will be to look at our collections and make sure pests (especially those who eat paper) haven’t had a feast in my absence!