CHARLOTTESVILLE (WINA) – Starting the day before Thanksgiving, you’ll be able to pick up an at-home COVID test kit at your local library. The JMRL has announced it’s becoming part of the Virginia Department of Health’s STACC pilot program to distribute rapid antigen at-home COVID tests to patrons free of charge.

Individuals can call their local JMRL branch location to make an appointment for contactless, curbside pick-up of a virtually-guided Antigen COVID test. The test kits must be used away from the library, via an internet-connected device with a camera (including smart phones) with digital test results available within 15 minutes.

The full release with all the information is below:

“Today, JMRL announced it has joined the Virginia Department of Health’s STACC pilot program to distribute COVID-19 rapid antigen at-home test kits at no cost to patrons through all JMRL library branches beginning Wednesday, November 24th.
The VDH program is designed to increase access to COVID-19 testing through a partnership with libraries and library systems across the Commonwealth, especially among rural, remote, under-resourced communities, and other vulnerable populations.
“JMRL is very glad to be a part of this pilot to increase testing opportunities and accessibility for the people of Charlottesville, Albemarle, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson,” said David Plunkett, JMRL Library Director.
Individuals can call their local JMRL branch location to make an appointment for contactless, curbside pick-up of a virtually-guided Antigen COVID test. The test kits must be used away from the library, via an internet-connected device with a camera (including smart phones) with digital test results available within 15 minutes. Library staff cannot assist with administering tests, and tests cannot be taken inside any JMRL location.
Program guidelines:
• Appointments must be made by phone in advance.
• COVID tests are available by Contactless Curbside pickup only, not inside any JMRL branch.
• Test kits are for use away from the library. Library staff cannot assist with administering tests at the library.
• If you are symptomatic, you should consider sending someone else to pick up your test.
• One test per person in a household is the general limit.
• Tests are meant to be used within two weeks of pickup (most will expire by the end of the year).
• Library cards are not required.
• You will need a valid photo ID and an internet connected device with a camera and a microphone in order to take the online test. Library wifi OUTSIDE the building may be an option, but tests cannot be taken inside any JMRL location.
• A trained guide will walk you through the process online. Follow the guide’s instructions for best results.
• Questions? Contact your healthcare provider or VDH at www.vdh.virginia.gov/covid19testing or 1-877-829-4682.
For more information, please visit jmrl.org/covid19.html