Reopening plans prepared for Staffordshire libraries

Although the date when library buildings can reopen has not yet been confirmed by the Government, libraries directly managed by Staffordshire County Council will open first in phases, with the community managed libraries (CMLs) following suit.

Hand sanitising, hygiene and social distancing arrangements are being prepared to ensure safe opening at all 43 libraries and if personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary it will be distributed to staff and volunteers where appropriate.

Gill Heath, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for communities, said: “Our library staff have been magnificent during the Coronavirus crisis volunteering to distribute food parcels and PPE, staffing our coronavirus call centre and checking on vulnerable isolators and now they’re keen to get back to the day job.

“All libraries will have safety arrangements in place regarding social distancing, hand sanitising and we may have to impose a maximum number of visitors at any one time.

“Some features, such as the computers and 3D printers will stay switched off for the moment and toilets will remain closed too for the time being.

“This will not be a return to normality, but it’s a step in the right direction and we will still need people to use common sense and observe the spirit of social distancing when they visit.”

The council has been in regular contact with the 27 CMLs during closure and is sharing reopening plans so that all libraries have the same procedures in place to protect staff, volunteers and borrowers alike.

CMLs have been told they can reopen at their own pace and will be supported by county council staff throughout the process.

Councillor Heath added: “As well as lending books our community managed libraries are a focal point in their communities for a wide range of activities and I know they are keen to carry on their good work once it’s safe to do so.

“We will be supporting all 27 and ensuring appropriate equipment will be available for them where necessary.

Staffordshire libraries already have a ‘home delivery’ service for those unable to visit and that is being extended to include those who are currently isolating and prefer physical books to the council’s online service ‘Borrowbox’.

Councillor Heath added: “Unsurprisingly use of our online service has soared in recent weeks and is still in great demand.

“Unfortunately, it is still too early for the mobile service to resume, as we cannot guarantee the safety of staff and users, but now we can also offer a safe delivery to those who are still isolating.

“If anyone wants to make use of it they should email us.”

And Sandwell and Walsall councils said they are waiting on government guidance.

Deputy council leader Councillor Wasim Ali, cabinet member for resources and core services, said: “We have started planning for when libraries are able reopen but nothing definite has been agreed at this stage.

“We are waiting on government guidance, which will inform the details of our plans and preparations for reopening.

“The safety of library staff and customers will of course be the top priority in our planning.

“In the meantime, I would encourage people who can to enjoy borrowing books online via any smartphone, tablet or computer. Our BorrowBox service means library members have access to digital and audio books for free, including the latest bestsellers, at any time.”

A spokesman for Walsall Council added: "Walsall Libraries services continue to plan and prepare our facilities and service provision as far as possible within current national government guidelines.

"Officers await further guidance to be issued from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport with regards to the re-opening of library services."