West Lothian libraries due to re-open

This follows updated guidance from the Scottish Government which enables the gradual re-opening of libraries subject to appropriate physical distancing and hygiene measures being in place.

From Wednesday, an appointment based, click and collect/phone and collect system will be in place across six West Lothian libraries including Linlithgow. Library customers will be able to book an appointment from Monday (July 13).

The service will operate appointments over two sessions per day from 10am-12.30pm and 1pm-4.30pm from Monday to Friday.

Customers who have digital access are encouraged to register and use the online catalogue or the Bookmyne app where they can search, select and reserve up to five books from the library they wish to collect their books from. Customers can then book a slot to collect their books using the MYPC booking system.

A step by step guide on the process of reserving your book online is available via the libraries section on the West Lothian Council website - www.westlothian.gov.uk/libraries.

If customers don’t have access to the internet then they can phone and collect from the participating libraries.

There will be no facility to browse books, use PCs or access any other in-house/physical library services at the present time.

It is anticipated that further elements of the service will be gradually re-established once the Scottish Government announces that the country is moving into phase four of the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Executive councillor for culture and leisure, Dave King said: “It is pleasing to be in the position to begin to bring back elements of our library service. We know how important libraries are to the lives of many in our communities, so whilst things won’t be normal we hope that customers will be able to enjoy the experience of accessing new books to read once again.

“It is very important that everyone follows the guidance set out when either booking or visiting one of the six libraries initially participating.

“The measures put in place will allow us to get the service up and running and if we all stick to the rules then it means a greater chance to see other elements of the service reintroduced sooner rather than later pending national guidance.”