Free COVID Test Kits Out At Fairfax County Libraries, More Coming

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — As Fairfax County Public Library started to distribute free at-home COVID-19 test kits Friday, the supply ran out early. More will become available next week.

According to an 11 a.m. Friday update, all 2,300 available BinaxNOW COVID-19 antigen testing kits have been distributed. A Fairfax County Public Library spokesperson said all library branches had high demand for the free test kits Friday morning and distributed all supplies within the first hour.

"The high demand for these test kits this morning indicates a continued need for accessible COVID-19 testing kits in Fairfax County, and FCPL is pleased to help distribute them," said Fairfax County Public Director Jessica Hudson in a statement. "Libraries are trusted community hubs and we are glad to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community by making testing kits more accessible. We will continue to distribute tests as more are made available to us."

An additional 10,000 kits have been requested, but the library cannot confirm if it will receive that amount. The Virginia Department of Health will provide additional tests to be made available during the week of Dec. 5. Residents should call their local branch before visiting to ensure supplies are available.

Residents should note VDH's recommendation to use test kits within two weeks to avoid wasting them if they expire. More FAQs are available from VDH about the testing kit program.

In the meantime, information on COVID-19 testing options is available from the Fairfax County Health Department. The BinaxNOW COVID-19 antigen testing kits are also available at a cost at pharmacies.

All open Fairfax County Public Library locations are distributing the test kits as part of the The testing kits are part of the Virginia Department of Health STACC (Supporting Testing through Community Collaboration) pilot program at libraries. The BinaxNOW COVID-19 antigen test is a nasal swab self test that can be completed at home with results in 15 minutes. Results for antigen tests are most accurate early in an active infection.

The test includes a virtual component through eMed with results automatically reported to the Virginia Department of Health. When taking the test, residents should have an internet connection and a device with a webcam or front-facing camera, microphone, and speaker for the testing session. A valid form of ID is also required to show the virtual guide, such as a driver's license, state-issued ID card, passport, birth certificate, military ID card or school ID.

Quantities of testing kits are expected to be limited. Tests are free and do not require proof of residency. For those who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, the library’s contactless curbside pickup service is available to request a testing kit.

Once supplies are replenished, the test kits will be available at Fairfax County Public Library locations, except Lorton Library, which is closed for renovations.