Wiltshire libraries will be here to support people during lockdown

We are pleased to be able to offer an order and collect service, with bookable computers, starting from 2pm today (7 January) at a number of libraries across the county.

The exact opening days and times of each library will depend on when the library is next open, which people can find at Library locations, opening times and mobile libraries.

The libraries team have shared what people can expect from the Order and Collect service:

• People let their local library know what kind of books they enjoy. This can be done by completing an online form or by phoning the respective library during their opening times
• The council will need to know the person's library card number and phone number
• Twelve books will then be selected on the person's behalf or 20 for a family - audiobooks can also be selected if the person has an audiobook subscription or membership exemption
• When the books are available, the council's library team will contact the person to arrange for them to collect them from the library entrance at a date and time that's convenient for them
• When the person arrives, a library team member will ask for the person's name and to see their library card, and then pass on the books
• If people wish to reserve a specific book and collect it from one of the order and collect libraries, they can use the council's normal reservation service. Books can be reserved via the online catalogue for 95p
• Books are loaned for three weeks and will need to be renewed, if people wish to keep them longer. They can be returned through the library letter box at any time
• All returned books will be stored for 72 hours before being put back on the shelves and will still remain on the person's account until that time

Bookable computer access is also available:

• Libraries are permitted, by a Government exemption, to offer library members access to the public PC network for essential use if they can't otherwise access a PC/laptop or the internet. Essential needs can include job applications, benefit applications, accessing public services, financial information, online banking, for educational purposes, to keep in touch with family members or to support their mental health
• Booking is essential if people wish to use this service: they can contact their local library to book a 45 minute slot. The council regret that people will not be able to access a computer without a prior booking

Cllr Ian Blair-Pilling, Cabinet Member for Libraries, said: We are pleased that we are allowed to offer order and collect services as well as bookable computers to customers during the national lockdown.

We look forward to many of our libraries opening for these services in the next few days, and continuing to support our communities across the county as much as possible at this time.

Customers are expected to use their local, nearest library to reduce unnecessary travel. Safety remains the priority at all of the council's libraries, and customers will be asked to wear a face covering and use sanitiser before using a computer.

The Home Library Service, providing books to the vulnerable in their own homes, will also continue. People need to contact their local library more information or visit the website.

Loan items continue to be renewed automatically, currently to the end of February, so there is no rush to return items currently on loan. Those libraries not currently operating will be kept under review.

To view details of all library opening times and reopening dates, please visit our Library locations, opening times and mobile libraries webpage.

Wiltshire library members can still download eBooks and eAudiobooks and read eMagazines. All the details can be found on our eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines webpage.