North Yorkshire residents can continue to use library services
North Yorkshire residents can continue to borrow library books during the current Covid-19 lockdown through a Select and Collect service.
Last updated 6th Jan 2021
North Yorkshire residents can continue to borrow library books during the current Covid-19 lockdown through a Select and Collect service.
In addition, the home library service, which sees volunteers deliver books, DVDs and CDs to customers who are unable to visit a library, will continue, and pre-booked library computer sessions will be available for essential use, such as accessing services and benefits.
The Select and Collect service, which was introduced last year in response to the pandemic, enables customers to phone or email their library to request the type of books they want, then collect a selection hand-picked by a member of the library team from the library’s entrance.
Computer sessions must be booked in advance by phone or email. Computers will be spaced to allow social distancing and will be cleaned after each use.
Select and Collect and computer access will be available at County Council-managed libraries in Filey, Scarborough and Whitby. Opening hours may vary, so to use the Select and Collect service or to book a PC session, contact your library or visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/CovidLibraries
Some community-managed libraries will offer these services where capacity allows. However, some are closed and others may vary their opening hours, so customers should visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/CovidLibraries or check their community library website or social media accounts for the latest information.
County Councillor Greg White, Executive Member for Libraries, said:
“During the lockdown, it is important that people stay home and stay safe. However, we know how beneficial a connection to their library can be to people’s wellbeing and how many people rely on free library computers to access services and benefits and to apply for jobs. I am pleased that we are able to continue to provide that connection to some degree through our Select and Collect service and to support the most vulnerable with the home library service and computer access.”
To find out how to join the home library service, visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/home-library-service or contact your library.
Online digital services, including e-books, e-audio, digital magazines and newspapers and a wide range of online reference material are available at any time through the library website, www.northyorks.gov.uk/digital-library Digital resources are also available through the library app, which can be downloaded to mobile devices from the App Store for iOS and Google Play for Android devices. Search for North Yorkshire Library.
To enjoy library services, you must be a member. Membership is free. Join online at www.northyorks.gov.uk/how-join-library Alternatively, to join, renew membership or get a PIN number, call your local library or the helpline number, 01609 533878.