Library opening times returning to pre-lockdown hours

The move, which came into effect this month, follows on from the work of the library team since the start of the pandemic to ensure members continued to have access to services.

From in-person borrowing, order and collect and the home library services, staff have done all they can to ensure Covid-19 restrictions and concerns didn’t stop readers from being able to access books.

Since reopening following the lockdown periods, library hours have been reduced but from this month, the town’s 13 libraries have reverted to pre-pandemic opening times.

Emma Hutchinson, LiveWire managing director, said: “From our online e-book and e-audio platforms to our order and collect and home library services, our brilliant library team was dedicated to helping keep people reading during 2021 despite the challenges of the ongoing pandemic - and we look forward to continuing our work in the year ahead.

“As such, it is fantastic that 2022 has started with a return to our pre-lockdown opening hours, which is a real cause for celebration. We can’t wait to welcome even more customers back through our doors in the weeks and months ahead.”

Councillor Tony Higgins, WBC’s cabinet member for Neighbourhood and Communities, said: “We know what an important role our 13 libraries play in our communities, and our staff have worked tirelessly over the past two years to keep local people connected to library services. This has meant responding to the challenges of the Covid-19 restrictions with creativity and innovation.

“I’m delighted that we are now able to restore our library opening hours to pre-lockdown levels, with a range of activities planned for the coming months. It will put our libraries in an even stronger position to meet the needs of local people, and welcome many more customers, new and old.”

The libraries have a range of events running at them, from crafts to coding clubs, rhyme times and story sessions.

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