Are libraries going to close?

[Fivemoreminutes1]

Because if they are, I need to do a panic borrow.

Where did you hear that @RedRosie? I work for a uni library so wondering what will happen but assume we’ll stay open.

Great name @ApocalypseNow. I work for one (Central London). We've been told we are remaining open.

But academic library's are in a different position to public ones, students can access many items they need using the library without it being staffed all the time, at least they will still have that facility. (I have also worked in a Uni library, I miss working with the students!)

Well we are closing for the time being until a decision is made with regards to click and collect, was pushing so many books on people yesterday .....

All the ones in my city are staying open. It hasn't been widely publicised, but libraries are allowed to stay open: www.gov.uk/guidance/new-national-restrictions-from-5-november#businesses-and-venues

That guidance says this

Libraries can also remain open to provide access to IT and digital services - for example for people who do not have it at home - and for click-and-collect

So it's not open in the sense that our libraries had been for the last month or two, (ie book a browsing slot, follow one way system and anything you touch touch goes into a box for cleaning).

Our library (England) has emailed to say they are still open for pre-booked appointments

@PattyPan

Our library (England) has emailed to say they are still open for pre-booked appointments

For click and collect or ‘normal’ browsing?

Really surprised at this and didn’t think anything other than click and collect was allowed (with my library assistant hat on).

I agree @MayFayre, that's what the guidance (law?) says

I went to our local library yesterday to stock up on books for toddler DD, they will be closed for the duration of lockdown. It was the first time I'd been back there since it reopened, but it was very normal - no need to prebook a visit, sanitiser on way in, scan NHS code, one way system but normal browsing and checkout using the machines. No restrictions on touching books (picture books are displayed in boxes front-on so impossible to see them without flipping through them). I didn't have my DD with me as I'd been wary about taking her inside if I had to stop her touching everything, but another toddler was there and the staff were fine with them browsing and sitting down to read.

@MayFayre it doesn’t specify in the email but I’ve clicked through and it says click and collect but browsing will be introduced soon (?!)
It also says they are open for visa verification appointments but that the computers are closed.

Maybe by soon they mean December?!

Our click and collect service is by appointment.