Libraries across Harrogate district set to reopen their doors as lockdown lifts

North Yorkshire County Council has announced it will reopen all eight of its sites in the borough which had stayed open during lockdown but only for collections at the door and essential computer use.

The libraries which will reopen for browsing and with new safety measures include Bilton and Woodfield, Boroughbridge, Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon, Masham, Pateley Bridge and Starbeck.

The council has advised people to contact their library before visiting as services may differ. It said face coverings must be worn and visitor numbers will be limited to ensure social distancing can be maintained.

Customers are also being asked to comply with test and trace requirements and restrict their visits to 20 minutes.

Councillor Greg White, executive member for libraries, says: “We are delighted that the latest government announcement enables our much-loved libraries to reopen their doors.

“We have made a lot of changes to the way we work, with the safety of customers, staff and volunteers our main priority.

“The Christmas holidays are always a popular time for families to enjoy reading, so we would encourage everybody to see what their local library has to offer.”

Covid: Harrogate's infection rate drops to lowest in North Yorkshire as Tier 2 restrictions set to come in

Libraries in Harrogate and Knaresborough temporarily paused their lockdown services earlier this month after a member of staff in each tested positive for coronavirus.

North Yorkshire County Council said the buildings have been deep cleaned and staff who needed to have self-isolated.

For more information go to www.northyorks.gov.uk/covidlibraries

By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter