COLOMBO PUBLIC LIBRARY TEMPORARILY REOPENS
The Colombo Public Library closed doors to the public following the COVID-19 outbreak. However, the lending, Children’s and Reference sections are now open while adhering to health guidelines. “I’m overwhelmed by the response from readers that we now issue four books to them instead of two,” said Deputy Librarian Chintha Ilapperuma. “They have a month to read the books. During the pandemic situation we continued our online programmes for the children. The library is temporarily open from 9.00am -3.30pm but maybe in another month’s time we will open other sections as well.”
So far there are 40,000-50,000 registered members at the Public Library who utilize its services. “People from anywhere in the country can apply to be a member. There are three options ; one is where someone can fill the application form and get it signed by a guarantor living in any place between Col. 1-15. The other option is where they can pay Rs. 2000 and get the membership within a day. Or they can opt to present a utility bill or give the land number of a guarantor as proof.”
When asked if people have a tendency to opt for e-resources, Ilapperuma said that although there was such a fear, people still enjoyed the reading experience. “We get many calls to inquire if the study section is open but we need to be mindful about safety precautions as well. So the mobile service and other services will resume next month,” she added.
The library is temporarily open from 9.00am -3.30pm