COVID-19 Test Kits and N95 Masks Still Available at Montgomery County Libraries

Per Montgomery County:
Test kits and masks are free to Montgomery County residents. Pick up rapid test kits and masks at Montgomery County Public Library locations, during all open hours, except these branches: Correctional Facility, Maggie Nightingale (Poolesville), and Noyes.  See library locations and hoursBring proof of residency. Examples include a driver’s license, identification, or bill that shows you are a resident of Montgomery County.

Kits and masks are available on a table or cart near the library service desk. Residents can get two test kits and four adult N95 masks per person per day. Each kit contains two tests. If you are unable to access COVID test kits or masks due to a disability, you can request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act by contacting 240-777-2982. Request rapid test kits for your organization.

How to use your rapid test kit

Rapid tests produce results 15 minutes after you complete all steps.

If you have questions about the test itself, visit the manufacturer’s website. If you have questions about your test results, contact your healthcare provider.

BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test:

Celltrion DiaTrust COVID-19 Ag Home Test:

Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test:

iHealth Rapid Antigen COVID-19 Test:

About our N95 masks

We offer adult-size ZYB-11 masks (a brand of N95 mask). We do not have child-size masks.

N95, KN95 and KF94 respirators, or masks, provide higher levels of protection against COVID-19.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rapid COVID-19 tests

  • Also called antigen tests
  • Samples collected with a nasal swab
  • Detect certain proteins in the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19
  • No laboratory needed
  • Get results in 15 minutes. That helps detect disease sooner, decrease spread faster and start contact tracing earlier.

PCR COVID-19 tests

  • Also called molecular tests or polymerase chain reaction tests
  • Samples collected via a nasal swab
  • Detect genetic material specific to the virus that causes COVID-19
  • Considered the “gold standard” in COVID-19 detection. They are often more accurate than rapid tests, especially for people without symptoms.
  • Performed in a laboratory
  • Get results in 2 to 3 days. When the demand for testing is high, PCR results can take a week or longer. That leads to delays in decreasing the spread of the virus.

When should the rapid COVID-19 test be used?

COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests are intended for the detection of the virus

  • within 7 days of symptom onset, or
  • after possible exposure to COVID-19.

If you are not fully vaccinated, test immediately if you find out you are a close contact. If your test result is negative, test again 5 to 7 days after your last exposure, or immediately if symptoms develop.

How are samples collected?

In both the rapid test and PCR test, samples are collected using a nasal swab. A swab is inserted about one inch into each nostril, one side at a time. The swab is then rotated around the inside of each nostril, approximately five times, to gather mucous.

Who should get a COVID-19 test?

How accurate are my rapid test results?

Rapid tests are most effective one to five days after symptoms start. Positive results are usually highly accurate. Negative results may need to be confirmed with a PCR test.

What does it mean if I have a positive rapid test result?

You are likely contagious. A positive test means it is very likely you have COVID-19 and could spread it to others. Even if you have no symptoms and feel good, assume you are contagious.

Contact your healthcare provider. Seek follow-up care from your healthcare provider as soon as possible, as you may need more testing and treatment. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine how best to care for you based on your test results, medical history and symptoms. Ask your provider if you are eligible for treatment, such as monoclonal antibodies (mAb). Monoclonal antibody treatment is not a cure, but it may lessen symptom severity. Learn more about eligibility for free monoclonal antibody treatment and other services.

Self-isolate at home and stay away from others for at least 5 days. See detailed isolation and quarantine guidance.

Tell your close contacts that they may have been exposed to COVID-19. For COVID-19, a close contact is anyone who was less than 6 feet away from you for a combined total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period.

What does it mean if I have a negative rapid test result?

A negative test result means you do probably not have COVID-19

  • if you took the test while you had symptoms, and
  • followed all instructions carefully.

It is possible for a test to give a negative result in some people who have COVID-19. This is called a false negative. You could also test negative if you tested too early in your infection. In this case, you could test positive later during your illness.

What should I do if my rapid test result comes back negative, but I have COVID-19 symptoms?

If you have symptoms of COVID-19stay home and isolate until your symptoms resolve, regardless of your test results. A PCR test is recommended if your symptoms continue after you got a negative rapid test. This is especially true if you had a direct exposure (meaning closer than 6 feet to someone for more than 15 minutes) to someone who tested positive for COVID-19.

Can I use a COVID-19 antigen self-test for work/school reinstatement or travel purposes?

No. Although rapid tests may be accepted by individual employers, schools, or airlines, the rapid tests we distribute are not supervised. We are unable to provide copies of rapid test results or proof of rapid testing for travel or return to work/school.

Do I need to return this test to receive my results?

No. This is a rapid test that will produce results for you 15 minutes after you complete all steps.

Is there an age limit on who can use this test? Can it be used for children?

COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests are intended for use by people ages 15 years and older (self-collected) or 2 years and older (collected with adult assistance).

Where can I find more information about COVID-19 testing options in Montgomery County?

See more COVID-19 testing options in Montgomery County.

Recent Stories

Today, Monumental Sports & Entertainment’s Founder, Chairman, Principal Partner, and CEO, Ted Leonsis, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson announced an agreement for a “transformative renovation…

The City of Gaithersburg was awarded $1,000,000 in direct federal funding for the Russell Avenue Multimodal and Streetscape Improvements project. Funds will update Russell Avenue to better connect Olde Towne…

$37 million first phase of the Westbard Square redevelopment project has signed new tenants with a few businesses already open in the 23-acre project at Westbard Ave. and Ridgefield Rd. Overall,…

The Germantown Flea Market returns Saturday, April 6, from 8am-1pm at the MARC rail commuter lot at the intersection of Germantown Rd. (Rt. 118) and Bowman Mill Drive. Additional details…

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

×

Subscribe to our mailing list