New click and collect library book service
‘We know how loved our library service is and while we have an extensive digital offering, sometimes nothing beats holding a book.’
A new ‘call, click and collect’ library service is being launched next week by North Ayrshire Council.
From Monday August 3, residents will be able to borrow up to four books for four weeks. The new service has been launched as libraries remain closed to allow staff to continue delivering lifeline Community and Childcare Hub provision as part of the council’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Residents can use the new service by either calling Arran Library or visiting the council’s online library catalogue from Monday at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/ libraries
Once a request has been made, library staff will select the books, package them up and keep them in quarantine for 72 hours before they can be collected. Staff will call or email customers to confirm a collection day and offer a onehour collection slot. Access to libraries is restricted, so staff will bring the books to a table at the front door for customers to collect.
The process has been risk assessed and various measures, including screens, hand sanitising station and physical distancing markers, will be in place to protect staff and customers. If you or someone in your household is displaying symptoms of Covid-19, please phone and cancel your collection.
Once books are returned, they will be quarantined for 72 hours before becoming available for borrowing again. Anyone with books they have had at home since lockdown can use the return boxes located outside participating libraries on collection days.
Councillor Louise McPhater, cabinet member for participatory democracy, said: ‘We are delighted to launch this new call, click and collect service. We know how loved our library service is and while we have an extensive digital offering, sometimes nothing beats holding a book.
‘Library staff have been working tirelessly to make this happen safely, while also serving communities through our hub provision. We hope everyone enjoys this new service and thank them for their continued patience.’
The Arran Library in Brodick will be available to take calls from 10am-1pm, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday on 01770 302835.