Update on Buckinghamshire libraries during lockdown

However, nine library buildings will reopen from today (Tuesday 10 November) to offer our “Request and Collect” service plus provide essential access to computers for customers who need it.

The libraries that will open again from tomorrow are:

Aylesbury (closed Tuesdays, open from Weds 11 Nov)

Beaconsfield

Buckingham

Chesham

High Wycombe

Little Chalfont Community Library

Castlefield Community Library

Beacon Villages Community Library

Stokenchurch Community Library

Please check the opening hours for these individual libraries before you do make a journey so you don’t turn up on a day they’re usually closed.

Customers won’t be able to browse for books at these sites but will be able to use the computers and collect books from these locations that they’ve borrowed using Request and Collect.

All current loans will be extended until we are able to reopen and no fines will be charged. You can return items at Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Buckingham, Chesham and High Wycombe libraries from tomorrow (Tuesday 10 November) if you would like to do so.

To borrow a book, please make use of the “Request and Collect” service that we successfully ran during the first lockdown period. You can let our library staff know the kind of books you’re interested in and they will choose something suitable based on your preferences. Who knows, maybe you’ll even discover something new!

Obviously the safety of our staff and customers is paramount - you don’t have to enter the library to collect requested books and it’s a contactless service. Strict social distancing measures will be in place for anyone using the PCs.

Our eLibrary is always open too with eBooks, eAudiobooks, digital newspapers and emagazines and online resources, available. Some of our library staff will also be redeployed to help assist in our response helping vulnerable residents while the libraries are closed.

Gareth Williams is Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health.

He says:

“We are really sad to have had to to close the doors to our libraries once again, but obviously it’s essential that we follow the current guidance as we all do our bit to try to reduce the rate of coronavirus infection. We’ve really adapted our services over recent months and I’m delighted customers can still borrow, read and listen to books and read emagazines even if they can’t browse in person. We can also continue to offer access to computers for our residents who rely on it too.

So do make use of our eLibrary and our Request and Collect services and we look forward to welcoming you back in person again when the current restrictions are lifted