• WE know how well loved our libraries are in Camden, they play a vital role in supporting communities, offering a space where people can meet, learn and discover new skills.

That’s why we, alongside our residents, are keen to have them reopened as soon as possible; but in a safe way that protects both visitors and our staff.

Following the recent guidance from government we have been working on plans to make sure Camden’s libraries can be reopened safely.

This includes a phased approach, with limited computer access available at two libraries in the first instance. This will be followed by further venues over the summer period.

The safety of our residents and staff is our top priority, so we are doing all we can to ensure that the necessary safety measures are in place to make sure buildings are “Covid secure” and residents are able to adhere to social distancing guidance before reopening.

This includes completing full risk assessments of all our libraries in consultation with our union colleagues, and we will release more information on our steps to reopening with dates as soon as we can.

Our library staff have been exceptional throughout this pandemic and many of them have been redeployed to support other critical services such as the emergency response for residents who needed to be shielded from Covid-19, this included working in food banks.

They have also continued to offer access to our online digital library, as well as expanding the range of online events and resources available. I know this has been a lifeline to many of our residents during a difficult time.

The Home Library Service has also delivered books to residents on the government’s shielded list, and over the summer the service will resume deliveries to its existing housebound customers with an aim to expand its offer to more people in the borough.

I’d like to thank our residents for their continued patience and look forward to welcoming them back to Camden’s libraries soon.

CLLR JONATHAN SIMPSON
Cabinet Member for Promoting Culture & Community Services