GV Libraries chief executive Kevin Preece said despite the closures, library staff had been busier than ever.
“Our staff have been kept really busy with our click-and-collect service. Our patrons have been contacting us with questions on what to read, and our staff have been able to offer advice.
“We've been able to offer continuity and people have really appreciated our service. I think books have stopped people going crazy during this period,” Mr Preece said.
District libraries opened on Tuesday, October 27 from 10 am with a limit of 10 people at a time. The mobile library service re-commenced on Wednesday, October 28 with a limited schedule.
Mr Preece said GV libraries would adopt a cautious approach to reopening.
“Initially we will only be encouraging people to come and borrow from our great on-site collections and use our public computers, printing and copying facilities.
“At this stage we will not be offering in-house story times, programs or use of our meeting areas until we are sure we can manage the physical distancing and hygiene requirements to ensure public safety,” he said.
He said patrons would be expected to maintain physical distancing and personal hand hygiene, and mask-wearing would be mandatory. Patrons will also need to provide contact tracing information.
“We ask patrons to be patient if we have reached our capacity limit and they need to wait until allowed to enter,” Mr Preece said.
He said all returned books were cleaned before going back on the shelf and people would be encouraged to minimise time spent in the library.
“Click-and-collect, borrow and go home will be our mantra,” Mr Preece said.
He said e-books and audio books had proved popular during the closure.
“Our online services have taken right off during the time we've been closed,” he said.
For more information on opening times go to www.gvlibraries.com.au
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