Book in now to pick up a great read for summer
Libraries set to launch click and collect service
Renfrewshire Leisure has confirmed the date its new click and collect library service will start.
From Monday, July 20 readers will be able to visit any of the 12 libraries in the area, including Paisley, Ralston, Renfrew, Johnstone and Bishopton, and safely collect and return books.
The date was solidified after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed Scotland’s Phase 3 in the route out of lockdown would take effect on Friday.
Since March, online reg i s t ration for librar y membership has soared by more than 300 per cent, while there has also been a significant increase in use of the online ebook and emagazine loans - up 82 per cent.
Councillor Lisa- Marie Hughes, chair of Renfrewshire Leisure, hopes the surge in popularity will continue once the click and collect service begins.
She said: “I am delighted that we will soon be able to offer book lending again at all of our libraries.
“By working with our customers to ensure all public health measures are followed, we are sure this will be a welcome, safe and enjoyable development.
“We know how much our libraries are valued and look forward to welcoming customers back, albeit in a slightly different way to that in which they are used to.”
Books can be reserved online at www.renfrewshirelibraries.co.uk or by telephone on 0300 300 1188. Access to buildings will be on a one in, one out basis. with each having a simple drop-off point for returns.
On top of this, staff will continue with the libraries direct service they have been operating throughout lockdown.
This has seen them work with volunteers and Renfrewshire Council to deliver books and make well-being phone calls to people who have been shielding in their homes throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Victoria Hollows, chief executive of Renfrewshire Leisure, said: “The safe and gradual reopening of our libraries is another important step in the recovery from coronavirus, not just for Renfrewshire Leisure but for our communities.
“Our staff are working extremely hard to deliver the best service to our library members.
“Their work whilst facilities have been closed has been exemplary.
“We will be continuing to develop our online offering alongside the physical services in our buildings to ensure as many people as possible people can benefit from our library services at this time.”
Opening times for each library will soon be made available at www.renfrewshireleisure.com.
Renfrewshire Leisure continues to await further guidance from the Scottish Government on the reopening of leisure services.
We look forward to welcoming customers back, albeit in a slightly different way they are used to