Tameside libraries set to reopen with new measures in place

A CLICK and collect book borrowing service will be among new measures in place as Tameside libraries get set to reopen.

The library service is preparing for a phased reopening from 6 July subject to step three of the Government’s recovery strategy going ahead.Four Tameside libraries – Ashton, Droyslden, Dukinfield and Stalybridge – will reopen initially, based on their size and layout and capacity to allow for social distancing.

The offer will include the following:

  • Return of outstanding items
  • A click and collect service for those not wishing to browse
  • Pre-booked use of PCs for 1 hour only (or walk in if there is capacity)
  • Printing

Safety measures will include hand sanitisers, one way systems, additional cleaning, managed access and capacity, quarantining books, removal of furniture that may encourage people to stay longer than necessary and sanitising of PCs between users.

There will be Perspex screens around the library counters and the use of self-service machines will be encouraged.

No unaccompanied children under 12 years of age will be allowed into the library in order to ensure social distancing measures are adhered to.

Learning from the reopening will be monitored and reviewed and further libraries may be reopened at a later date as part of the phased approach.

The Home Library Service will be resumed on a non contact basis service and will be extended to include shielded people and those who are very vulnerable for health and wellbeing reasons.

However Open + self service hours will not be operating and library events and group activities will not be taking place however a full programme of online activities is available and being developed further.

Tameside Council Executive Member Cllr Leanne Feeley, who is responsible for culture, said: “We all know the importance of libraries and the difference they make to people’s daily lives, whether that be for learning, health, information, reading for pleasure or any of the other many benefits offered.

“This much loved public resource has been greatly missed during lockdown and I am keen that libraries are re-opened as soon as possible with the safety of both customers and staff being of the utmost importance. This is a really positive step but I ask that people are responsible and work with us to  keep themselves and others safe by observing the social distancing guidance and not spending any longer in the libraries than they need to.”

For further information, opening times, details of accessing the click and collect service and booking onto a PC see www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries/reopening or call the library from 6 July.

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