By October 19 all libraries will be open again

• IN March Covid-19 meant Camden’s libraries had to close to the public.

Since then, we’ve worked hard to offer alternative ways to keep supporting our communities while keeping staff, volunteers, and visitors safe.

Camden’s digital library has been giving residents access to online books, newspapers and magazines for free.

We also supplied books to residents via emergency food parcels, our Home Library Service and more recently our Request and Read book collection service.

But we know that nothing can fully replace the role that our libraries play in offering a space where people can meet, learn, and discover new skills.

That’s why I am so pleased to announce that by October 19 all our libraries will be open again for the public to visit, choose their own books and to access computers, printing, scanning, and photocopying.

To keep everyone safe we are limiting the number of people who can be in one library at once and keeping browsing time to a maximum of 20 minutes. Safety measures also include one-way systems, sanitisation stations and regular cleaning.

Computers are allocated on a first come, first served basis. All computers are cleaned regularly, spaced to allow social distancing, and we are currently limiting visitors to a one-hour session a day. We also request visitors wear face coverings.

Over the coming weeks the library service will be working with partners to carefully reintroduce a range of other services including adult learning classes and one-to-one sessions for our most vulnerable families.

CLLR ANNA WRIGHT
Cabinet Member for Promoting Neighbourhoods & Communities