Library lovers rejoice. It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for. As Covid-19 restrictions continue to be eased, East Dunbartonshire’s much-loved libraries are restoring services as well as introducing some new ones as part of a phased re-opening.
As of this week [June 21] the home delivery service will be re-introduced. Working alongside East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, EDVA, and Soroptimist International of Kirkintilloch, EDLC staff will offer this service to care facilities and also library members who are unable to travel to their local library due to physical or health conditions.
For those able to visit libraries, from 21 June, members will be able to attend a pre-booked one hour computer session where they can also access printing, scanning and photocopying services. Members can book these sessions, either by calling the library or by using the new online booking system [opens in a new window].
Those who are not yet library members can call their local library to book a session. Available days and times are listed outside the library or online on the Connect and Collect section of the EDLC website [opens in a new window].
Strict safety measures will be in place to protect both customers and library staff. Library members will be met at the door for an induction and asked to wear a face-covering when moving around inside the library.
Pre-booked computer sessions at Lennoxtown, Bishopbriggs and Milngavie libraries will be available from June 21, 22 and 23 respectively. Bearsden and William Patrick Libraries will be open for booked sessions from June 29 onwards.
- Bearsden Library from 29 June, Tuesday & Thursday mornings, 10am until 1.30pm (booking open from June 25)
- Bishopbriggs Library from 22 June, Tuesday & Wednesday mornings, 10am until 1.30pm
- Lennoxtown Library from 21 June, Monday afternoons, 1.15pm until 4.45pm
- Milngavie Library from 23 June on Wednesday & Friday mornings, 10am until 1.30pm.
- William Patrick Library from 29 June on Tuesday & Thursday mornings, 10am until 1.30pm (booking open from June 25)
From 28 June, the popular Connect and Collect service – which was reintroduced in April - is also being extended to 8pm one evening per week in each library. Collection appointments and book returns will also be available on Saturdays at William Patrick, Bearsden, Bishopbriggs and Milngavie libraries.
Browsing continues to be the most complex service to re-introduce, with current restrictions, however EDLC libraries are working towards the introduction of limited browsing from July.
Joint Cllr Leader Vaughan Moody, said, "I am delighted to see the libraries opening their doors again to allow people to make use of some of the many and varied services they offer. Our libraries are used by so many different parts of our community from the baby classes to the events evenings to more informal meet-ups.
“They have been sorely missed by so many during the pandemic and I’m sure this news of a phased re-opening will be welcomed whole-heartedly. While they are not yet able to operate at full capacity, being able to access computers, printers, photocopiers as well as all the books through connect and collect and home delivery is just fantastic.
“I look forward to July when, hopefully, they will be able to welcome members back to browse their shelves once again.”
Follow the Council on Twitter or like us on Facebook.
Follow the Trust on Twitter or like the EDLC Leisure Facebook page.