Libraries and Heritage Services in Hertfordshire re-open

From today (April 12) a number of Hertfordshire County Council services, including Libraries and Heritage Services will re-open in line with the “next step” of the Government’s Covid-19 roadmap out of lockdown.

Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted and Tring libraries are among the 30 welcoming back visitors.

In addition to access to public computers, customers are once again able to make short visits to browse bookshelves to select their own books and magazines or try a pre-selected Grab and Go themed pack.

Visitors are able to visit 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 are in place including queue management, screens on enquiry desks, hand sanitiser stations and quarantine areas for returned books.

Customers are required to provide their details for Test and Trace purposes and wear face coverings during their visit.

The People’s Network computers will continue to be available in one-hour slots for customers who have made a booking in advance. There will be 15 minutes between bookings to allow for cleaning.

Michele Murphy, Acting Head of Libraries, said: “Visits to the library are an important part of daily life for many people and we are delighted to welcome customers back through the library doors.

"The service will look a little different for a while, but library staff have worked hard to ensure that a safe environment is maintained.

"We have also prepared a great selection of Grab & Go packs for customers who have previously enjoyed the Ready Reads service during lockdown, or just want to try something a bit different.”

For more information and opening times click here.

Hertfordshire Archives and Local Studies will be reopening for pre-booked reading room appointments from April 20, welcoming people to explore Hertfordshire’s unique heritage through the archive and local studies collections.

The online booking system will be available from Tuesday, April 13, and all visitors will need to book their visit and documents a week in advance.

Appointments in either the archive reading room or local studies library last for two and half hours and customers can order up to eight documents in advance.

Onsite services remain limited, with safety measures in place to ensure all visits remain Covid-secure. Customers who would like advice about their research and help selecting relevant documents to order for their visit are encouraged to contact our enquiry team in advance of making a booking.

Julie Gregson, Head of Heritage Services, said: “We are really excited to be reopening to Hertfordshire residents again, albeit in a slightly different way for now.

"We will be reinstating our online booking system for reading room appointments in the first step towards resuming our full range of services.

“I am looking forward to seeing our visitors make full use of the fascinating collections that Hertfordshire Archives and Local Studies has to offer once again.”

Please visit the Hertfordshire County Council website for more information about archive and heritage services available, and to book an appointment from April 13.

For up to date information on Hertfordshire County Council services please visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/serviceupdates.