Johnson County Library closes branches to the public

Johnson County Librarian Sean Casserly announced Saturday that the system would be closing its branches to the public through Tuesday, March 31 in an effort to minimize the risk of transmitting COVID-19. “The Library serves and employs a number of at-risk populations, with an average of 38,000 patrons per week entering our facilities,” Casserly wrote. “Johnson County Library wants to do everything it can to help protect our community and curb this viral outbreak.” During the closures, overdue fines will not accrue. Current holds will be made available to patrons when the branches reopen.

Leawood City Hall remains closed on Monday

Leawood City Hall will remain closed on Monday, March 16 in a precautionary action after the city learned of a possible COVID19 / coronavirus exposure last week in the facility. Crews have also been working to disinfect the work site. City hall employees will not report to work Monday while this process continues. Other city facilities will be open, but group meetings and classes, including the city council meeting scheduled for Monday evening, are canceled.

Monticello Trails Middle teacher Keil Hileman named Life Change of the Year finalist

Keil Hileman, social sciences teacher at Monticello Trails Middle, was named a finalist for the Life Change of the Year award. National Life Group recognized Hileman on March 11 as one of five national finalists for the award. As an award finalist, he has received $5,000 to be shared between a $2,500 individual award and a $2,500 donation to his school or USD 232.