Bourne Library opens for book returns and computer sessions

The library was not among the first 14 main Lincolnshire County Council libraries to reopen in the county under the lifting of lockdown restrictions as it forms part of the South Kesteven Community Point at the Bourne Corn Exchange.

South Kesteven District Council has also confirmed that it plans additional services from September 7 with an online click and collect book service and essential council appointments.

Initially, in a phased re-opening from Monday, library members can only return books to a desk at the entrance or into a drop-box outside to enable social distancing to be maintained.

Book drop-offs and computer sessions will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 1pm. Customers who wish to access a library PC must pre-book a slot online through Lincolnshire County Council on 01522 782010.

Coun Rosemary Trollope-Bellew, SKDC Cabinet Member for Culture and Visitor Economy, said: “It’s very important to see our key services restored, but it’s also vital that we do so safely.

“The systems we have put in place are designed to make sure we do not contravene social distancing guidance, while restoring some key library services, namely access to computers and book returns.”

From September the library’s click and collect book service will then operate with online reservations to collect books at a pre-arranged date and time, but there will be no opportunity to go in and browse. INstead people must browse and choose their books online.