More Libraries To Reopen In North Somerset
More of North Somerset's libraries are getting ready to open their doors and welcome back customers.
Following the successful re-opening of five libraries in August, the phased re-opening of library buildings offering limited services continues next week.
From Monday 7 September customers will be able to borrow books using self-service facilities and use computers by prior booking at Pill and Worle Library and Children’s Centres, Winscombe Library and Weston Library in the Town Hall.
The following week will see the library at The Campus in Locking Castle also re-open offering the same services.
The libraries might look and feel quite different when they re-open as changes have been made to protect the safety of staff, volunteers and customers. All customers are asked to follow safety procedures when visiting libraries and to wear a face covering. Opening hours are currently restricted so please check before visiting.
Staff are not currently able to offer face-to-face enquiries or assistance with computers. Seating areas are reduced and there are no events or activities and no newspapers or reference material available.
The North Somerset Studies Library in the Town Hall won’t re-open in this phase, but enquiries can be submitted via phone or email.
“Libraries have a key role to play in the local economic, social and cultural recovery from coronavirus,” said Cllr Caritas Charles, the council's executive member for leisure, culture and tourism.
"We have made great progress to get our libraries re-opened safely and means we can now begin to look towards the next phase in the recovery of the service. Things we’re starting to look at in the next phase include how and where we can safely resume some of our events and activities, introducing bookable study space and possibly advice sessions.
"We also want to extend library opening hours further once everyone is back in work. Be assured the safety and health of our customers, staff and volunteers is our primary concern and all changes will be made following risk assessment and in line with the latest public health advice."