Spalding and Long Sutton Libraries to stay open this month

People will still be able to use public libraries in Spalding and Long Sutton during the current lockdown, it has been confirmed today.

All 15 main libraries across Lincolnshire, including those in Victoria Street, Spalding, and Trafalgar Square, Long Sutton, will be open to visitors over the next four weeks.

Library members will be able to collect reserved books and use computers to for "essential digital public services", according to Lincolnshire County Council.

Those who currently have books out on loan can keep hold of them until December 9, 2020, however, people will be unable to come into libraries and browse.

Holbeach county councillor Nick Worth, the council's executive member for culture, said: "We know these services are a real lifeline to the community and we saw how they were missed during the last lockdown.

"I hope this time, with the pre-booking click and collect service - and the access to computers for essential digital public services – it will make a real difference."

Meanwhile, community hubs in Crowland, Sutton Bridge and Swineshead will also be open, despite the latest national lockdown.

Coun Worth said: "We are working closely with our community hubs to give them support they need.

"But they all have differing offerings, so please call before you make a journey to check they are open and have what you need.

"To reassure residents, we are doing all we can to keep the facilities COVID-secure, with many safety measures in place, including hand sanitisers, asking visitors to wear face coverings, two-metre social distancing, quarantining books for 72 hours and keeping space beside computers.

"I am also pleased to say that our no-contact library access delivery service to rural residents will be continuing."

To reserve books, visit https://capitadiscovery.co.uk/lincolnshire/home or call 01522 782010.

In addition, to reserve a 30-minute session on a computer, call 01522 782010 and you will be transferred to your chosen library to make the booking.

For more information about how library services will work over the next four weeks, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/libraries