Browsing returns to Hemel Hempstead Library

The public can now browse bookshelves for 15 minutes at Hemel Hempstead Library, which re-opened today (Wednesday).

Last month, services were extended at St Albans, Stevenage Central, Watford Central and Weleyn Garden City libraries, this has now been extended to Hemel Hempstead Library, in The Forum.

Visitors will be able enter the library for up to 15 minutes to browse the bookshelves and to use the self-service kiosks for borrowing and returning items.

Social distancing measures will be in place including queue management, screens on enquiry desks, hand sanitiser stations and quarantine areas for returned books.

Residents will also be encouraged to wear face coverings during their visit.

In addition, the People’s Network computers will be available in one-hour slots for visitors who have made a booking in advance.

There will be 15 minutes between bookings to allow for cleaning.

This news follows the successful launch of the Ready Reads service at the start of July, offering book packs selected by library staff .

Terry Douris, Cabinet Member for Libraries, said: “I am sure that the news of these libraries re-opening will be welcomed by library visitors who I know have missed the opportunity to choose their own books.

"The extension of this to provide computer access to people who may have had little or no opportunity to access online services during lockdown will contribute to our economic recovery and is an important step towards resuming our wider library offer.”

Visitors will be able to:

- Enter the building for a limited period – they will be asked to keep their visit to 15 minutes

- Select their own books and issue them on the self-service kiosks

- Use the photocopier

- Join the library

- Make short enquiries

- Use a pre-booked PC for essential computer use

- Social distancing measures will be in place including queue management, screens on enquiry desks, hand sanitiser stations and quarantine areas for returned books.

Visitors will not be able to:

- Use seating areas

- Access study spaces

- Access toilet facilities

- Make long or complex enquiries (these will be referred to appropriate teams)

- Use a PC without booking

- Pay for additional PC time

- Access Wi-Fi

- Read newspapers or periodicals

- Participate in group activities.

The library will be open from 12pm till 4pm on Tuesday, closed on Sunday, and open from 10am till 4pm the rest of the week.