Libraries Re-opening Across The Region

Post date: May 31, 2020 9:49:42 PM

Mudgee, Gulgong and Kandos Libraries will reopen from today, June 1, in line with an easing of restrictions by the NSW Government.

Rylstone Customer Service Centre and Library is undergoing a refurbishment and is expected to open in coming weeks.

The practice for entering libraries has changed in order to protect our community and staff.

Under the Public Health Order, visitors to the library must provide their library membership number and if they do not have one, their name, a telephone number or email contact.

At Mudgee Library these details will be collected by a staff member at the front entrance, and at Gulgong and Kandos customers are asked to attend the front counter.

While these details are collected visitors will be asked to use the provided hand sanitiser.

People counters will be manned by staff at each of the libraries to ensure the number of visitors is limited to one person per 4m2, that means the maximum amount of people at Mudgee Library will be 99, 22 at Gulgong and 33 at Kandos.

At this stage, libraries will be open for returns and borrowing only with faxing, scanning and copying available on request. Public PCs, meeting rooms, face-to-face programs, events, study areas and extended visits will remain unavailable until it is safe to resume these activities.

Manager of Library Services, Michelle Maunder said all necessary measures have been taken in accordance with NSW Health guidelines to make libraries safe for staff and visitors.

“In addition to the registering process, we have hand sanitiser upon entry, floor markers for physical distancing and sneeze guards at counters,” Ms Maunder said.

“As has been the process during the closure period, all return items will be sanitised before they’re available for borrowing again. Our craft and storytelling sessions will continue on the Library’s Facebook page and Council’s YouTube Channel".

"We will continue home delivery in our Mobile Library Van and our contactless pickup service on request".

“We’re excited to welcome back our customers and hope they understand these new measures are in place to protect our community.”

Mudgee Library will be open 10am-5pm Monday to Friday, Gulgong and Kandos Libraries will be open their usual Monday to Friday hours. Saturday openings have ceased until further notice.