Libraries phased reopening
Following Government guidance libraries are now able to reopen.
The normal range of activities and browsing will not be possible at this stage of reopening and customers visiting the library may find they need to wait outside to be assisted by staff.
The following libraries are open with reduced opening hours:
The following libraries will reopen from the week beginning Monday 3 August, with reduced opening hours:
Face coverings
The Government has extended the policy on the mandatory wearing of face coverings in public places in England. From Saturday 8 August it will be mandatory for all visitors to wear face coverings in more places including public libraries.
Although this does not come into force until Saturday, except for those who have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face covering, it is recommended that they are worn by all visitors with immediate effect.
Services available
Due to the necessity for safe ways of working, including rigorous cleaning regimes and the management of staff timetabling, library services will initially be restricted to:
Library items must be pre-ordered in advance, to be collected at an agreed timeslot. Items can be ordered in three ways:
- Ring 0300 126 1000
- Email the library
- Pick up a form from the library
Please note to help us work safely and manage our stock levels, a maximum of 5 library items per borrower can be requested for collection. Books can be requested by genre and preferred author but we cannot guarantee the availability of individual titles.
In line with guidance from Public Health England we recommend that items are quarantined for 72 hours from the date they have been collected.
Due to the current pandemic, fines are temporarily suspended.
Due to COVID-19 we are not charging for computer use and 10 printouts are free per day. Pre-booking is required for 45 minute slots. To book:
- Ring 0300 126 1000
- Speak to a member of staff at an open library
An enquiry, information and signposting service is available. Speak to the library staff when you arrive at the library.
Services not currently available
The following will not be available:
- Meeting room bookings
- In-library events
- Public toilets
- Browsing stock
- Blue Badge applications and renewals
Community managed libraries
The community managed libraries are being fully supported by the county council and are being encouraged to reopen at their own pace. For further information please email your local community managed library.