THUNDER BAY — The Thunder Bay Public Library has announced a new service to help people print their proof of COVID-19 vaccination from the Ontario government's online portal.
As of Sept. 22, all Ontarians require proof of full vaccination in order to access certain indoor spaces considered to pose a higher risk for the transmission of the virus.
These include:
- meeting and event spaces, including conference and convention centres
- restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments
- facilities used for sports and recreational fitness activities, including waterparks and personal fitness training
- casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments
- concert venues, theatres and cinemas
In an announcement Monday, TBPL said obtaining proof of vaccination may be a barrier for some people, especially those without access to computers, smartphones, printers or Internet access.
It will provide printing service for free in a variety of ways, including:
- In person at any location during hours of operation - computers will be available for individuals to use to access the online portal and print proof of vaccination forms - staff will be available to assist, if needed
- By sending a PDF file of the proof of vaccination to any library location (by email to [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]). Staff will print the PDF files and will wait for patrons to present themselves in person. Photo identification will be required for pick up of vaccine records.
- If people are picking up vaccination records for members of their family, they must present the person's health card as proof of identification.
- To access vaccination records online, people must know the postal code that is associated with their individual health card.
A library card and proof of vaccination are not required to visit the Thunder Bay Public Library for this service, but COVID protocols including masks, active screening and physical distancing are enforced.
Once some new equipment and supplies are received, TBPL will also laminate the proof of vaccination after it's printed.
People who don't have a green health card or who have questions about the vaccine certificates are advised to contact the Thunder Bay District Health Unit at 625-5900.
