Libraries in Lichfield and Burntwood to allow visitors to browse the shelves again as restrictions are eased

Visitors to libraries in Lichfield and Burntwood will be able to browse the shelves once again as lockdown restrictions are eased.

Facilities have previously been limited to click and collect services only, but the national changes to coronavirus regulations, means traditional book browsing is now allowed from today (12th April).

Helen Riley, Staffordshire County Council’s deputy chief executive and director of families and communities, said:

“As lockdown eases, we are very pleased to be able to take a step towards restoring more public access to our services in the community.

“Inevitably some conditions remain in place at the moment and we ask people to respect staff, volunteers and each other as they return.”

Helen Riley, Staffordshire County Council

Library chiefs said books would still be quarantined after handling, while social distancing and the requirement to wear masks still applies.

The mobile library service will also return to rural roads from today, with the two specialist vehicles offering an ‘order and collect’ service at a limited number of stops.

“I know from feedback that people appreciate the efforts so far to provide services in these difficult times and staff are delighted to begin expanding services once again where possible.”

Helen Riley, Staffordshire County Council