Any news on libraries yet?

[TazSyd]

Just that really. Would really like to use my local one. To go in and work from home in there, just for a change of scenery.

Surely if offices are allowed to do it ( with social distancing and cleaning) then libraries could too.

I'd love libraries to open too! My poor DD is really missing them.

I can't wait for libraries to open as I'm spending too much money and books and I've spent the last few years trying to borrow rather than buy to reduce clutter!

If they follow similar protocols as shops for numbers, returns etc. I don't see why they can't open tbh.

It's likely to be first week of July , reduced service

Also check your council library page
Ours has an update , depends which county

The library service I work for is planning for early July reopenings but not necessarily all branches and it will initially likely be limited to some form of click and collect service and very limited public computers. No browsing the shelves and returned books will be quarantined. I very much doubt they will let people use desk space at first. Obviously each Library authority will make their own plans but I suspect that this will largely be the shape of things for the first few weeks.

Ok thank you. I will also check my council’s website.

I could still may be wander down at lunch time and pick up a click and collect book . Just having something different to do would be a start.

Crazy they are not already open. They wouldn't be as packed as Primark etc

Mine email about changes, but I've not heard anything yet.

Sign of the times I guess. I used to look forward to holidays and meals out. Now going for a wander and picking up a book, is something to add to my diary and really look forward to!

@Talisin same as mine, wonder if all authorities are the same, I'm south east

Apparently ours is open, im going to pop down and have a look as i have two books to return

Oh no wait

Ive just looked at the website so its shut on some days and it appears to be open by appointment...I’ll ring tomorrow (charges have been frozen...obvs)

You could always try charity shops for books as they are now opening I think as are car boots.

I think some of Hampshire's libraries are open for a selected click and collect but I don't know what the plans are to reopen for computer use etc.

Agree - libraries are far less risky than congested shops!

Our county libraries (Hampshire) are now offering a 'click and collect' type service. They will pick a selection of available books based on your preferences and you collect them at specified times. On return they will be quarantined. I'm going this afternoon to collect my first lot.

We took out at least 30 books each on the day they closed which has kept us going. But it won't keep us going indefinitely! And I have 150 + books to return!

I've just had my return date extended to 1 Oct, so I'd resigned myself to them not opening for ages. Be fabulous if they open earlier than that.

I friend who works in one is going back in a couple of weeks, BUT given the discussions we've been having at work (similar setting) I'd be surprised if any open for free browsing as opposed to limited returns and reservation collections.

I just want to return my books

I know they’ve frozen the fees but ive had 40 years of feeling guilty if i dont return a book

That sort of socialisation is hard to shake 😀

I work in a library and have been cleaning shelves, we are waiting for PPE screens at the moment

Worth keeping an eye on this page for the most up to date list of libraries that have announced their plans and opening dates.

The online service has been available throughout lockdown. I've been using it for a few years now to borrow books and audible books online instead of getting the hard copies