Library services to be reopened in phased approach

Plans to reintroduce library services in a phased approach over the coming months has been announced by Caerphilly County Borough Council.

Libraries in the borough have been closed since March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The first stage of reopening library services will see the reintroduction of the LibraryLink community outreach service. However, library buildings themselves appear unlikely to reopen any time soon.

The LibraryLink service will see books delivered to the doorsteps of residents who are isolating at home as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak.

The council is hoping to get the service back up and running in July, with further details set to be announced in the coming weeks.

The council has reassured residents that all collections and deliveries will follow strict Covid-19 guidance issued by Welsh Government and Public Health Wales.

Cllr Philippa Marsden, leader of the council, said: “I’m sure the whole community will welcome this news and understand that we need to reintroduce our library service in a cautious, phased approach.

“Our Library buildings will remain closed for the time being as we consider how we can safely reopen these popular facilities as part of subsequent phases in the future.”

The LibraryLink service will initially support all residents who have received a shielding letter, regardless of age, as well as all residents over the age of 70 who have no access to ebooks or other digital services.

Current registered users of the service will also be supported upon it’s relaunch.

The council’s free digital reading materials can be found at www.caerphilly.gov.uk/Services/Libraries/Libraries-online