The Delaware County District Library joins more than 130 of Ohio’s public libraries to distribute at-home COVID-19 testing kits for free when you request them at any location via Curbside or Drive-Up Window service.

Please call your preferred location before you pick-up to check on availability!

Public libraries play a critical role in many individuals’ day-to-day lives, but we’ve been asked to step up in many more ways during this COVID-19 pandemic. Testing alone is not going to end the pandemic, but DCDL can help make the kits easily accessible to our community and fight the spread where we can.

The Background

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) continues to purchase at-home COVID-19 testing kits with the intent to make rapid testing kits available and accessible in every Ohio county. ODH’s partnership with the Ohio Library Council (OLC) has enabled public libraries to offer these free tests all over Ohio.

Beginning in January 2022, every home in the U.S. is also eligible to order free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests by visiting www.CovidTests.gov. The tests are completely free, and orders will usually ship in 7-12 days.

How do I get a test?

• Free kits from the ODH are available at any Delaware County District Library location (in Delaware, Orange Township, Powell and Ostrander)
• Pull into a curbside pickup space or drive-up window
• Follow the directions on the signs to call the branch and request a COVID-19 testing kit
• DCDL staff will deliver the kit, along with a link to instructions, and individuals can test at home
• Need help? Read these testing tips.

The Delaware County District Library continues to ask that patrons with COVID-19 symptoms, or those who are feeling ill, refrain from entering the library. If customers are ill, experiencing symptoms, or have been exposed to someone that is ill or experiencing symptoms, they should not come to the library to get a kit. Please send a family member or friend to pick up.

Can I get more than one test?

We can give a patron one kit for each family/household member who needs to be tested.

Where can I test?

Tests may not be completed in a DCDL building and Library staff may not assist beyond handing out the free tests. A QR code and link will be found on a corresponding piece of paper and the directions can be followed to complete the test or use the testing app.

Are these proctored tests?

The test kits currently available are non-proctored tests intended for personal use. Results may not be used to meet travel requirements, to return to school, or to meet requirements to attend certain public events. The Delaware Public Health District is another local resource that can offer assistance if you require an official, proctored test result.

My test kit is beyond the expiration date. Can I still use it?

Columbus Public Health recently received notice that the FDA has authorized an extension of an additional three (3) months on Abbott BinaxNOW expiration dates. For example, if the expiration date on box was 9/20/2021…it was previously extended 3 months to 12/20/2021…and is NOW extended an additional 3 months to 3/20/2022. Please call eMed customer support with questions or if assistance is needed: (844) 943-0061.

Rapid COVID-19 Testing FAQ

Have a Kit? Start Testing