We are open

We are very pleased to let you know that we can now go ahead with Stage 2 of the Library’s reopening plan. Measures will be kept under constant review.  We respectfully ask you to comply to keep everyone safe.

From 1 September, members only will be able to use the library as follows:

• You can book up to 2 one-hour slots per week (different days). (Max of 12 members in the library at any one time). (All bookings must be made in advance: 0191 232 0192 or library@litandphil.org.uk. Advance booking also applies to return books/CDs only, or pick up pre-ordered books or CDs. This is of vital importance as we must keep accurate records of who is in the building and when). 
• Our new opening hours will be:
  Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri: 10am-12pm & 1pm-4pm
  Wed 10am-12pm, 1pm-4pm & 5pm-7pm
  Sat (12 & 26 Sep only) 10am-1pm
• You may now use some tables and chairs in the main library (clearly marked) and can also read current periodicals. The Music Room is available on request, and pre-1850 material may be requested in advance to be read in the library.
• Please arrive on time & leave by or before your allotted slot expires. The Lecture Room will be used as a waiting room if absolutely necessary.
• Please wear face coverings on entering the building, and observe social distancing whilst inside, follow marked routes & other instructions.
• Books & CDs must be returned to a member of staff in the Joseph Swan Room on the ground floor. These will then be quarantined for 72 hours.
• Please use the hand sanitising stations on the ground floor & before browsing. The browsing of books and periodicals should be kept to a minimum.

Unfortunately at this stage we can still only offer a limited service, in order to minimise the risk of transmission of Covid-19:

• Refreshments & daily newspapers will still be unavailable during this stage.
• No access to the Gallery, (except the Music room) or Reference Room – any items required will be retrieved by staff.
• No photocopying in the building but members may request an email/scan service.
• No cash handling – but we can take a card or cheque.
• No use of public catalogue or computers – staff will help you find items. 

Additional services:

• Members may request books and CDs in advance. 
• Books & CDs may be posted to members on request.
• Members may request a home delivery service.
• Thanks to the Independent Libraries Association, we are able to offer you 3 months’ free access to Press Reader, giving you a choice of 7000 newspapers and magazines from 120 countries. Please email us with your Membership Number.

We realise that although Stage 2 of our reopening plan is still limited we sincerely hope it is not too long before some more rules are lifted and we can slowly return to as near to “business as usual” as possible.

In the meantime, please be reassured of the following:

Measures will be kept under constant review and will be relaxed or tightened according to government advice and regulations. The Society’s priority is to protect staff and to mitigate risk to them and to members. Members are respectfully asked to comply with the measures set out in this initial reopening phase.

We have relaxed all our loan periods, and if you don't yet feel able to book-a-slot, do not feel you need to post books back to us. Do hold onto them as long as you need to while this situation is upon us (and as you already know we never charge fines).  

All books and CDs we are coming into contact with now and over the coming months will be cleaned with antibacterial wipes.

We are committed to working through this together in the most responsible and compassionate way we can, just as you would expect us to.  While uncertainty abounds, please know that our commitment and loyalty to you, our valued members, visitors and supporters remains as steadfast as ever.

Take care, stay strong and keep reading!

NHS ADVICE

The Lit & Phil’s Annual General Meeting is usually held in May but this year will take place on Wednesday 14 October, 6pm in the Lecture Room of the Lit & Phil. (Please note change of venue from previously advertised).

Ordinary & named Family Members may attend, and face coverings MUST be worn please (unless you are exempt).  

To comply with the Government’s Covid safety guidance, the Lecture Room can seat only 49 (48 members plus one staff). If you intend to attend, please email library@litandphil.org.uk, phone 0191 232 0192 or tell the desk as early as you possibly can.

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