By Anne Levin

As the COVID-19 virus situation continues to evolve, Princeton’s streets and gathering places grow quieter. Some key community services which have curtailed or temporarily closed during the crisis are included here. Restaurants are closed for indoor dining until further notice from the state of New Jersey, but many are offering takeout and delivery.

Princeton Public Library issued a statement this week announcing closure through March 29, when the situation will be reassessed. “This decision was made in consultation with municipal officials and in consideration of the well-being of our staff and community,” the statement reads. “Materials will not be accepted for return while the library is closed, and fees and fines will be waived. The library’s book drops will be unavailable during the closure, and customers are asked not to leave books or other materials on library premises. While the building is closed, library card holders can still access a broad range of digital resources including e-books, audiobooks, movies, music, tutorials, and research tools through the library’s website. For updates, see the library website at princetonlibrary.org.”

The Arts Council of Princeton is closed through March 29, when it will reassess the situation.

SAVE, A Friend to Homeless Animals, is open but operating with staff only, no volunteers. Approved adoptions are by appointment only, and the application can be completed online. The organization will not be accepting household items such as sheets, towels, used pet beds, and newspaper at this time, though canned food, litter, toys, treats, and kitten supplies can be left outside the front doors (1010 Route 601, Montgomery) during business hours.

“Pets are a lifetime commitment and this is a good opportunity to welcome a new pet while the family is home for an extended time,” wrote Executive Director Heather L. Achenbach in a statement. “We are here to help. Call the shelter at (609) 309-5214 to make your appointment (approved applications only).”

The Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice on Wiggins Street has closed its doors, but issued this statement: “We do this with great sadness but an even greater desire to keep our community safe and healthy in these extraordinary times. But we are now dreamin’ up a nightly virtual balm — livestreaming dynamic Social Justice Power Hour to remotely entertain and enlighten our community. Music, craftmaking, interviews, queer yoga, shenanigans, etc. with some truly special guests. Stay tuned, true believers. Social distancing may be a necessity right now but it does not mean we cannot be social from a distance.”

Princeton Plasma Physics Lab (PPPL), 100 Stellarator Road in Forrestal, has curtailed on-site operations and suspended public events such as tours. Visit energy.gov/science for more information.  

Morven Museum and Garden, 55 Stockton Street, has closed its galleries until April 1, but the grounds remain open to the public. Princeton University Art Museum is closed until further notice, and the museum at Updike Farmstead, home of the Historical Society of Princeton at 354 Quaker Road, is closed through April 5. All scheduled public programs and events through that date are canceled.