Northamptonshire libraries announce second phase of re-openings after first stage 'success'

Northamptonshire libraries has announced its second phase of re-openings across the county, following official guidance from central government
By Carly Roberts
Published 24th Jul 2020, 13:04 BST
Updated 24th Jul 2020, 13:08 BST
Rushden library in Newton Road, among six others, is re-opening its doors on Monday, August 3.Rushden library in Newton Road, among six others, is re-opening its doors on Monday, August 3.
Rushden library in Newton Road, among six others, is re-opening its doors on Monday, August 3.

From 3 August, more of the county’s libraries will reopen to ensure accessibility for the maximum number of customers.

The libraries to reopen are Brixworth, Corby, Duston, Hunsbury, Rushden, Towcester, and Central library in Abington Street.

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This second phase follows an earlier series of re-openings that took place in July, where Wellingborough, Irthlingborough, Brackley, Kettering, Weston Favell, Daventry and Oundle became accessible to the public again.

Internet access at the libraries will be by appointment only.Internet access at the libraries will be by appointment only.
Internet access at the libraries will be by appointment only.

Due to the necessity for safe ways of working, including rigorous cleaning regimes and the management of staff timetabling, library services will restrict internet use to appointment only and books need to be chosen through a select-and-collect lending service.

The normal range of activities and browsing will not be possible at this stage and customers visiting the library may find they need to wait outside to be assisted by staff.

Councillor Lizzy Bowen, deputy leader of the council, said: “The first phase of library reopening was very successful and we’re pleased that we’re able to start the second phase shortly afterwards.

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"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.

Books pictured at Central library in Abington Street will have to be prebooked before they are used.Books pictured at Central library in Abington Street will have to be prebooked before they are used.
Books pictured at Central library in Abington Street will have to be prebooked before they are used.

“We have also ensured that our popular library services are available online throughout lockdown, and look forward to gradually being able to offer these in our libraries once again.”

Current opening times for the libraries differ depending on location:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday:

(10am - 4pm, and Saturday: 10am - 2pm)

Wellingborough

Corby

Oundle

Kettering

Rushden

Weston Favell

Central Library

Brackley

Monday, Wednesday, Friday:

(10am - 4pm)

Daventry

Tuesday, Thursday:

(10am - 4pm, and Saturday: 10am - 2pm)

Brixworth

Irthlingborough

Hunsbury

Duston

Tuesday, Thursday:

(10am - 4pm)

Towcester

Further information will be available on the website as matters progress.

Related topics:NorthamptonshireBrixworthWellingboroughTowcesterDaventry