Westbury Library has welcomed back library users to its building following the lifting of lockdown restrictions.
Library users are now able to visit the library for browsing, as well as access public computers.
Senior Library Assistant Debbie Russon told White Horse News, “We are open on Tuesdays and Fridays between 10am-1pm and 2-4pm.
“This is for limited browsing and bookable computers only. Limited browsing allows an individual or family to have a short time to browse in each section of the library to choose their own books.
“Normal Covid rules around wearing of masks (unless exempt) and hand sanitising apply.
“We would also like to thank our customers for their support over this past difficult year and we look forward to resuming normal service when we can.”
Westbury Library is one of 22 libraries confirmed by Wiltshire Council to be reopening this week for browsing. Three mobile libraries have also reopened.
In line with the Wiltshire Council Roadmap, Wiltshire’s 34 libraries (including mobile libraries) are taking a cautious approach to reopening.
As lockdown is eased, opening hours and services will be increased in a phased way over the next few months.
The libraries will operate with Covid-19 safety measures in place to ensure social distancing and keep everyone as safe as possible. As part of safety precautions, ‘browsing time’ will be restricted to a maximum of 30 minutes to limit the number of people in a library at any one time.
Library material borrowed before lockdown is due back from the beginning of May at the earliest.
The Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre has also reopened, but customers will need to book visits in advance.
Spaces are limited due to social distancing requirements and to ensure customer and staff safety. Customers will be asked to order any documents they wish to consult in advance of their visit, as documents will be quarantined 72 hours before and after their visit.
Wiltshire Council’s director for communities and neighbourhood services, Jessica Gibbons, said, “During the latest lockdown our libraries have done a fantastic job at continuing to support users via order and collect book services and essential computer access. Both the history centre and library teams have also adapted throughout the pandemic to provide some great innovative online resources.
“We are delighted to get the green light to be able to open our doors once again, to welcome people back to enjoy browsing books of their choice and delving into the history of the county once again.
“We know how important these services are for our communities, and our teams are working hard to get everything in place to make sure we reopen safely.”
For further information about the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, people should visit www.wshc.org.uk. To book a visit people can email archives@wiltshire.gov.uk
