‘Safe browsing’ in place as libraries reopen doors
WELCOME FOR TRIAL SCHEME IN BID TO ROLL OUT WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES
SIX libraries in Kirklees are to take part in a “safe browsing” trial that will allow members of the public to seek out books of their choice.
The pilot, which begins on September 7, will be strictly controlled, with browsing kept to a 15-minute maximum.
There will be no access to IT equipment or newspapers and magazines, and visitors will be discouraged from “dwelling” within library space. A one-in/one-out system will also be operated.
Libraries across the borough were shut temporarily by Kirklees Council following the national lockdown, in line with social distancing guidelines released by the Government.
However, since July 20, readers have been able to return borrowed books as part of a phased return to services.
Among those welcoming the move was Clr John Taylor, who represents Kirkburton for the Conservatives. His local library is one of those involved in the trial, along with Shepley. It is hoped that a successful trial will lead to it being rolled out to other venues in the borough.
He commented: “Libraries are a vital part of our communities and I have struggled to understand why they had remained closed when bookshops had opened.
“I have been raising this issue at every opportunity for several months and am pleased that finally the council have listened and will be opening six libraries for limited hours to enable browsing in a Covidsecure way.
“I am pleased that both the libraries in which I volunteer - Shepley and Kirkburton - are being included in this pilot.”
He added: “Of equal importance is enabling people to use the public access computers.
“For those who do not have access to the internet at home, this is an invaluable resource, all the more so as during the pandemic many services and businesses have moved to more online provision.
“I am pleased to see that this is also being piloted from September 7 and hope to see a rapid roll-out across all libraries.”
Council chiefs this week announced investment of almost £800,000 in a new purpose-built library for Birkby Fartown. Clr Taylor said they had recognised that “all of our communities need their libraries back if they are to survive and thrive”.
He added: “Libraries have a role to play in supporting the economic recovery, and also in showing that Kirklees Council does remain available and accessible to all.”