Commencement postponed, library closed: Fresno State restructures campus life amid COVID-19 outbreak

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fresno State will close offices "not essential to direct student support" for the rest of the semester to adhere will new guidelines to prevent the spreading of COVID-19, University President Dr. Joseph Castro said on Tuesday.

Starting Friday, March 20, students will no longer be able to study or research in the Henry Madden Library, Castro said, and only the university's online resources will continue to operate within the building.

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Castro said the traditional commencement ceremonies scheduled for May have been canceled, but administrators are "(continuing) to explore how and when to celebrate Commencement 2020."

The university's beloved Vintage Days festival has also been canceled.

Students will continue their semester virtually through May 22, 2020.

Castro said the Student Cupboard, the dining hall and student housing facilities will remain open with social distancing practices in place.

Students will also have access to the financial aid office and the student health and counseling center. Most campus offices that are not essential to direct student support will transition to working remotely.

Read Castro's letter to the campus community here.

Last week, Castro and university administrators suspended in-person classes as COVID-19 concerns continued to grow, and planned to begin virtual instruction on Friday, March 20.

Other local universities and colleges have restructured their systems to help students finish their semesters.