Local Library Branches re-open

Published on 03 June 2020

Local Library Branches re-open

The majority of Wimmera Regional Library Corporation (WRLC) branches have this week re-opened to customers as part of the wider lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.

The Horsham branch is now open Monday to Friday, between 10am – 12pm and 2pm – 4.30pm. Between opening times all returned library books and high-touch surfaces are cleaned to ensure all those working in and visiting the library feel safe.

Hand sanitiser is available at the door and all visitors are asked to record their details before entering the library. A maximum of 20 people, plus library staff, are permitted in the building at any one time, and there are also crosses and arrows to help guide library customers as they move through the library space.

WRLC Chief Executive Officer Ann Twyford says that everyone coming through the doors is doing the right thing and maintaining social distancing.

“Everyone is understanding of the situation and abiding by the rules,” she said.

She also notes that people are happy to be back in the library and to browse the titles on the shelves. Prior to re-opening customers were still able to borrow books using the library’s online ‘click and collect’ service.

At this stage visits are capped at 15 minutes to allow everyone the opportunity to visit  the library. This means that at present people can’t study or read the newspapers for prolonged periods. However, this is due to change in the coming months.

For now, both customers and staff alike are enjoying the opportunity to be back in the library and interacting at a safe distance.