A further three Liverpool community libraries have now reopened their doors to the public.
After the successful reopening of Central Library on 13th July, the following libraries are now open:
Open Monday, Tuesday and Friday – 10am-3pm
Open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday – 10am-3pm
Open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday – 10am-3pm
The libraries will have reduced opening times to allow for deep cleaning when they are closed.
Visitors will be allowed to browse the shelves as usual, but will be asked to be mindful of how long they spend in the library if there are people waiting to come in. Where possible self-service points should be used for checking out and returning books.
WiFi will be available. Food and drink should not be brought into the libraries.
Library users will also notice these changes:
- There are a reduced number of PCs and a pre-booking system will be in operation for hour-long slots. PCs will be cleaned after each use
- Printing, scanning and photocopying services will be available but how they are used will change
- You will not be able to book meeting rooms or hold events.
- Perspex shields have been installed on counters
- When books have been returned they will be quarantined for 72 hours
- Fines will continue to be waived
- There will be less furniture to allow for social distancing
- New signage to remind people of restrictions
- Face coverings must be worn if people are able to do so
- Hand sanitiser should be used on entering the library
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
The reopening of Central Library has been hailed as a success with about 500 people a day visiting and no queuing needed. At the moment it is open from 10am-3pm, Monday-Friday.
Since libraries have been closed, Liverpool Library Service has maintained its Home Library Service which has seen an increase in demand.
Cllr Wendy Simon, cabinet member for Deputy Mayor of Liverpool and cabinet member for culture, tourism and events, said:
“Being able to reopen our community libraries will be welcomed by many, many people as they are a cherished part of people’s lives.
“When you visit the library again you will notice that there are some changes that have been made to keep both you and staff safe. But we know from Central Library that these work well and I’d like to thank everyone who has made its reopening a success.
“We’re hoping to open further libraries over the coming weeks and we ask people to bear with us whilst we put our plans in place. Each library is different so presents our library team with different challenges.”
The digital library of e-books and e-newspapers has also doubled its number of loans, compared to the same period last year. Find out how to borrow digital resources at www.readliverpool.co.uk
