Nottinghamshire libraries could begin to re-open in July

Libraries across the county closed on March 20 due to the coronavirus restrictions.

Now Inspire, which runs libraries for the council, is now planning how to resume services in a safe and socially-distanced way that could see libraries begin to re-open from July 6.

Inspire staff will return to library premises in the coming weeks to make the necessary preparations to welcome visitors within government guidelines.

Peter Gaw chief executive of Inspire, said, “We will be having a phased approach to resuming a face-to-face library service.

“A limited loan, information and ICT service will be on offer, with each library having a specific, pre-set visitor capacity which will allow people to distance themselves and be safe”.

Coun John Cottee, chairman of the communities and place committee at the council, said: “While our buildings have been closed many customers have discovered our virtual offer, Inspire Online, and our helpline service, ASK Inspire, so we have been able to provide a range of services remotely.

“However, I’m really pleased that we are now in the planning stage of opening physical sites again to help support the needs of our communities.”

Inspire will issue more details about which libraries will be opening and range of services available in the coming weeks via Facebook and Twitter at @nottslibraries and online here.