Update on Library Access

31/07/2020

The library is currently putting in measures to comply with the NSW Government COVID-19 guidelines for libraries to allow the library to reopen when it is safe to do so. These measures relate to the well-being of staff and visitors, physical distancing, hygiene and cleaning and record keeping. We will be installing protective screens and a contact tracing system.

At the moment libraries are required to make sure that their books are sanitised to help prevent the spread of the virus. This requires time. All books must be quarantined for at least 24 hours (and up to 72 hours) before being re-loaned.

When all our COVID-19 measures are in place and health and safety considerations allow, we will re-open the library. However, the hours will be limited at first and the primary focus will be providing access to the electronic resources that are not available in chambers. We cannot provide access to the hard copy collection as the quarantining protocols also apply to any books which are used in the library. Every book that is touched / used has to be quarantined for at least 24 hours.

We have our ‘Click, Collect & Return service operating twice a week at the moment. This service will be extended to 4 days a week when demand requires. We have also now enabled reservations for Click&Collect to be made on your behalf by your clerk. You can put in requests to borrow books by logging onto the library website and follow these instructions.

The library is a place where a large number of people interact every day. However, it is a small space and even when we do reopen we will be limited in the number of visitors we have while there remains a risk of people contracting the virus. We have to consider the health of everyone in the library and work within the current guidelines. We will keep you posted regarding developments.


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