London Public Library still working to restore systems following cyberattack
CBC
The London Public Library is still working around the clock to restore a system outage after being hit by a cyberattack on the morning of Dec. 13.
The library confirmed the outage was the result of a cyberattack in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.
"We can confirm that we immediately engaged with cybersecurity experts who are continuing to work with us," said Ellen Hobin, the communications manager for the London Public Library.
"At this time, the investigation has not determined whether personal information may be implicated."
There is no word if a ransom had been demanded by whoever attacked the system.
The system outage took down the library's online catalogue, along with access to many digital services.
By Tuesday, service was restored to the London Room Digital Collection, Mango language learning along with PebbleGo and Tumblebooks platforms for children.
Access to the popular Libby/OverDrive digital book platform remained down on Wednesday, along with the online catalogue, access to public computers, printing and public wifi.
There is no word on how long a full restoration of services will take.
The Carson, Glanworth and Lambeth library branches will remain closed until Jan. 2.
With limited access to technology and internet, the library is pivoting their holiday programming to include more hands-on activities for children and youth.
"We have over the years developed a lot of tech-based programs and so currently we're kind of pivoting everything to low-tech," said Hobin. "The staff have come up with some really great activities to keep kids engaged over the winter break."
They will be offering traditional crafts, along with new games and toys for children to play with friends and family, including "things that are kind of low-tech, so aren't networked or don't require Wi-Fi," said Hobin.
The library's Teen Totes program is also set to roll out on Friday, which includes popular books geared toward youth that are available at open branches.