Library hours to be extended

RAWTENSTALL Library’s opening hours will be extended from next week.

From Monday, August 17, the opening hours will be extended to 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday, in addition to the current 10am to 1pm. People will still need to book an appointment before visiting.

Appointments can now be booked to use the Six of the best service in the afternoon after August 17, and slots to use the Browse and borrow service will be made available from next week.

The Browse and borrow service means that customers are able to come into the library for a pre-booked 30 minute period and choose up to 20 books.

From August 17, some of the public access computers will also be available. Customers should use the online booking system at www. lancashire.gov.uk/ coronavirus-updates/ libraries . Appointments can also be made by calling 0300 123 6703.

Customers will be asked to provide their name and contact details to support the NHS Test and Trace system, and will need to wear a face covering.

As other libraries will remain closed for now, customers can make an appointment to visit any of the libraries that are open, even if it isn’t their local library.

County Coun Peter

Buckley, Lancashire County Council’s cabinet member for cultural services, said: “It is great that we have started to welcome our customers back into our libraries, but we are taking a phased, step-by-step approach to this.

“I am sure that customers will appreciate the longer opening hours, as we try to cautiously get back to a normal service.”

Anyone wanting to return books can do this by placing them in the returned books container at the entrance of the libraries that are open. Books will be quarantined for 72 hours before they are re-shelved. Customers will not be charged for any overdue items.