More of our libraries reopen to book borrowers

Ramsbottom will become the second library to reopen to customers following the long coronavirus lockdown.

The branch launches its Order and Collect Service from next Tuesday (6 October), when readers can order books online or by phone. Library staff will process the orders and customers will be contacted when the order is ready to be collected at a specific time.

The doors at Ramsbottom will physically reopen two days later (Thursday 8 October) for the collection and return of books. The library will be then be open for collection and return every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons from 1pm-4pm. Staff will set up a collection area in the library to allow customers to collect their books and also return any items they have from before the lockdown began.

There will also be limited public access to computers, which must be booked by calling 0161 253 5352.

Bury Library reopened in August and the two remaining libraries in the borough - Prestwich and Radcliffe - are due to reopen in the two weeks following Ramsbottom (15 and 22 Oct).

Remember that it is compulsory to wear a face covering when visiting libraries.

To use the Order and Collect service at Ramsbottom Library from Tuesday:

Call the library on 0161 253 5352 between 10am and noon and between 1pm and 4pm.
Place an online order at https://www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15700 - but please note, this will not be live until Tuesday morning at 10am.

Online services are still available for customers who are unable, or do not wish, to visit a library: see https://www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=15336

Councillor David Jones, cabinet member for communities and emergency planning, said: “Our libraries are highly valued by the community, and have continued to offer a range of online services during the lockdown. Thousands of adults and children have borrowed books electronically, and taken part in online storytime sessions.

“For many readers, though, nothing beats being able to borrow books in hard copy, and we’re delighted that all our libraries will shortly be offering this facility.

“I want to say a huge thanks to our library staff, many of whom have been working with our Community Hubs during the lockdown to ensure our most vulnerable people received food, medication and support.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 5 October 2020.