Central Bedfordshire Council news and press releases

Select and collect library services continues during lockdown

Friday, 13 November 2020

We're pleased to confirm that select and collect services will continue at our 12 libraries during the latest government lockdown.

During the peak of the pandemic, as libraries across the country were closed, our virtual library remained open and the range of online events, ebooks and audiobooks available to the public was transferred online.

Library customers are able to request, collect and return items at their local library without entering the building. With coronavirus still present in our communities, this approach keeps both customers and staff safe whilst improving access.

Customers can order specific titles or ask the library staff to select a range of books from a particular genre, all for free. Books can be ordered online via the virtual library or by using the Bedfordshire Libraries app.

Download the app from Apple's App Store

Get the app on Google Play

Customers with no internet access can place an order over the phone during opening hours by calling their local library. When the order is ready, residents will be contacted by email or letter, to let them know it’s ready for collection.

The extended opening times for customers to be able to collect and return books vary at each library. Check the times for your local library.

There is signage at each library explaining to customers how to safely return their books, where they will be quarantined for three days before being available for reissue. This will help to safeguard staff and customers against the handling of items that someone else has touched.

Pre-issued items will be brought to customers at the entrance to the library after they confirm their name and the last four digits of their library card number. Residents are reminded not to visit the library if they are unwell and that a face covering must be worn.

Councillor Ian Dalgarno, our Executive Member for Community Services, said:

We’re really pleased to be able to continue to offer our select and collect service to our customers during the current lockdown restrictions, alongside our virtual library services.

Following the announcement last week, we have been hearing feedback from lots of our residents and they have said that it’s fantastic news that the service is continuing and say they would be lost without access to books.

Customers are reminded to please follow the guidance, maintain social distancing while visiting the library and please stay at home if you have any coronavirus like symptoms.