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COVID Testing Kits Offered At Libraries
lib test
Along with the free at home COVID test kits available at the Oakdale Library, a variety of information is offered on the table. Limit is one box per person, which includes two tests. Sarah Lawson/The Leader

The Oakdale Library is currently offering free at home COVID test kits, part of a program designed to give area residents easy access to the tests.

Officials with the Stanislaus County Library system said the kits were made available for distribution at all branches, including Oakdale, Ceres, Denair, Empire, Hughson, Keyes, Modesto, Newman, Patterson, Riverbank, Salida, Turlock, and Waterford. The FDA approved Emergency Use Authorization tests also include information about what to do if testing positive; such as isolating away from other and following the guidance at www.schsa.org/coronavirus/guidances/.

Anyone is eligible to pick up a test; at the Oakdale library, 151 S. First Ave., they are on a table along with more information about the tests right after you walk through the main lobby doors. There aren’t a certain number of tests each branch location has to give out; the goal is to provide an adequate amount at each site to help fill the need for tests in the community.

There is also no time frame for when the offer expires; they are there for pick up while supplies last.

Many stores have sold out of the at home tests as a result of the recent holiday observances and a spike in cases. Library officials ask that people take just one test kit, which contains two COVID tests.

The at home kits indicate results will be available within 15 minutes of taking the test. For additional information or resources, call 209-558-7535.

The Oakdale Library is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 6 p.m.; Tuesday 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Friday and Sunday.