After almost four months of being shut due to the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic, as UK Government restrictions continue to be eased, Ruddington Library is reopening its doors this week.
The sudden closure on March 21st not only halted its loans and reference services but also caused the cancellation of special events, such as Henry Normal‘s planned appearance, and halted numerous village classes and group sessions which usually happen in the building on a monthly basis.
Whilst some activities and usual facilities will take a while to return, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Libraries and Archive Services, managed by Inspire Culture, has announced our library will open on two days each week from July 14th.
Assistant CEO at Inspire, Kirsty Blyth, says: “Lockdown easing means you will finally be able to replace your books. It will look a bit different but our top priority is keeping you and our staff safe. We will do our best to make you feel safe, welcome and inspired!”
To achieve this, every visitor will need to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Please do not visit the library if you have Coronavirus symptoms
- Queue to enter if requested to do so – as capacity is now limited
- Provide your contact details upon arrival – to be shared with the NHS Test and Trace system if required
- Use the hand sanitiser provided on entry and exit
- Follow the new signage and adhere to social distancing of two metres from other customers and staff
- Books can be returned contactless in designated drop off areas. Space and weather allowing, this may be outside
- Note that toilets, study, coffee and seating areas are closed for the time being
- If you wish to use a library computer it is recommended that you book in advance
- Take along the correct change to use the printer, scanner or photocopier
There’s a full list of what you currently can and cannot do in Nottinghamshire Libraries on the notice below:
For now, whilst these new safety measures are trialled and assessed, Ruddington Library opening hours will be restricted to Tuesdays from 10am to 1.00pm and Fridays from 1.00pm to 4.00pm.
Kirsty adds: “If you are not quite ready to visit us yet, maybe because you are vulnerable or shielding, try our new Click & Collect and Home Delivery services, or visit inspireculture.org.uk/online for eReading options as well as cultural and learning resources.”
You can find further general information >>HERE<<.
{Ruddington Library interior photos by Alice Flear}
