Free Covid test kits will be available at libraries
Fairfax County public libraries will distribute free Covid-19 rapid antigen at-home test kits beginning Friday, Dec. 3.
BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Card test kits will be available at 21 libraries, including George Mason Regional Library in Annandale and Thomas Jefferson Library in Falls Church.
Neither proof of residency nor a library card is required. Quantities are limited, however.
The test should be taken at home, not in a library. Anyone experiencing Covid symptoms should request kits via the library’s contactless curbside pickup service.
Due to the recent surge in Covid-19 and low retail supply, there has been an increased demand for testing throughout the commonwealth. The library distribution initiative is being carried out in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health.
Increased access to diagnostic testing – through trusted community hubs such as libraries – will help people learn whether they have the virus so they can get early care. And that should help slow transmission of Covid.
Taking the BinaxNOW test requires an internet connection; an internet-enabled device (computer, mobile phone, or tablet) with a webcam or front-facing camera, microphone, and speaker; and a valid photo identification card (driver’s license, passport, passport card, birth certificate, state-issued ID, military ID card, or official school ID).
Once completed, rapid antigen tests provide results in 15 minutes. After the test taker completes the test online, eMed will automatically report the results to the Virginia Department of Health.
The VDH antigen testing recommendations webpage provides guidance on the next steps following test results.
2 responses to “Free Covid test kits will be available at libraries”
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I am there today Dec 3 at 10:30 (library opens at 10:00) but there is a sign on the door that no COVID test kit is available.
The TV news said they ran out after the first hour. I talked to a librarian at the George Mason Library this afternoon. She said they expect to get more early next week. But she said the ones they had today had an expiration date of Dec. 28, so they are not designed to keep at home for future use. They are more for those that can't easily get to a place that offers the test and need it now. But free is free so there are those that don't really need them that will get them anyway.