Libraries across Northamptonshire to allow browsing from next week

After nearly six months of limited library access, customers will be allowed to browse once again from next week.

Northamptonshire Libraries is able to increase the range of services it can offer from Monday (September 14).

Browsing will generally be by appointment only, however walk-ins might be available if there are no appointments booked in.

Customers will be able to select their own books and use the self-service system to check them out.

Councillor Lizzy Bowen, Deputy Leader of the council, said: “So far, our library re-openings have been very successful and we’re thrilled to be introducing controlled browsing and reintroducing some of our services in order to help our local residents.

“Library services are an essential part of the community and we have used a phased approach to ensure that health and safety measures are in place and that social distancing guidelines can be adhered to, to protect both our staff and customers.”

Each library will allow a limited number of customers into the building, depending on the safe capacity of the library.

Libraries will be marked out to ensure social distancing around shelves and there will be one way systems.

Since the closure of libraries across the county in March this year, all library charges have been suspended.

However, from October, library charges will be reinstated, including the late return charges on borrowed items, computer hire and printing charges.

Safe cash handling procedures will be in place, but where possible, people will be encouraged to pay by card and customers will be able to renew books over the phone or online to avoid charges.

For more information about the reopenings, visit the libraries’ website.

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