A welcome queue

A queue of people could be seen outside Warragul Library as it re-opened its doors to the public on Wednesday.

As restrictions ease, West Gippsland Libraries are now open for 15-minute browsing sessions as well as one-hour public computer sessions.

In addition, click and collect services and home deliveries will continue to be offered.

West Gippsland Libraries marketing strategy manager Bec Noone said staff were thrilled to be open in a limited capacity, with some small adjustments to operating hours at Warragul and Drouin libraries.

As restrictions further ease, the library is hopeful of welcoming more people for longer periods of time.

“For us, the library service is not just about books. It’s about having that human connection. Everyone has really been missing us and we’ve been missing welcoming them,” Ms Noone said.

The northern mobile library service, visiting Trafalgar, Yarragon, Longwarry, Erica, Nyora, Willow Grove, Rawson and Thorpdale, has resumed. One person is permitted to browse at a time. A click and collect service is also available.

Ms Noone said regular programs such as Storytime and author talks would remain suspended. However, many of those programs are offered online.

“The success of the online programs has been amazing,” she said.

Entry to the libraries is not permitted for people who live in metropolitan areas. Photo identification, a library membership and facemasks are required.

For further information, visit wgrlc.vic.gov.au.

Warragul resident Norm Trott catches up on his emails during a computer session at the re-opened Warragul Library.

As restrictions ease, Warragul Library officer Jenny Tucker welcomes back the public for browsing and borrowing.

Warragul Library branch manager Daniel Best and library officer Cassie Woodhouse were thrilled to welcome the public back to the Warragul Library.