Preparations underway for re-opening of Helensburgh, Thirroul and Corrimal libraries

NOW is the time to bring back your library books, magazines, DVDs and CDs.

While Wollongong City Libraries aren’t opening their doors – yet – preparation is underway for their reopening.

Part of this work includes a call-out for people to drop their library materials back through the external return chutes at Helensburgh, Thirroul and Corrimal libraries.

As staff are expecting an influx of returns, the request to start returning library materials now provides an opportunity for them to be quarantined for 24 hours, in line with the NSW Public Health Order.

“The State Government have some quite clear guidelines regarding library books and resources and this includes them being set aside for 24 hours before they can return to the shelves,” Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said.

“We’ve had a lot of books returned to our libraries during the closure period and what we’re hoping is that people can drop off their outstanding books before we get to the point where we’re reopening our libraries. This way staff will have the time to quarantine them, and get them on the shelves so that when we do reopen there’s a wealth of materials to choose from.”

All Council’s libraries have external returns chutes that are open 24 hours.

“Our community has been really proactive in these challenging times and has supported our city’s most vulnerable,” Cr Bradbery said.

“We need to continue to keep up this good work. Coronavirus continues to be a risk and a threat and we can’t be complacent about how we go about our modified daily activities.

“I’m sure a lot of people are keen to get back to our libraries – and we’re working through what that might look like. But if people are able to return outstanding library items early, it’ll help our dedicated staff continue to deliver the level of service our community knows, and appreciates.”

While Council hasn’t a date to reopen libraries – it says it is awaiting formal advice and updated NSW Public Health Orders that would outline the steps and measures needed for the north’s three libraries.

Cr Bradbury said Council is considering what measures would be needed to ensure the health, safety and well being of staff and volunteers, their families and the community.

“We will keep out community updated about any changes we’re making,” he said.

“There is one thing for certain, however. Things will look and feel a little different and I anticipate we’ll need measures in place like we have at our pools to manage the number of people and the length of time they’re at any of our libraries.”

Visit Council’s website for more information and updates on changes to services.

Donation

YOU can also make a small donation towards the running of The Bulli & Clifton Times and/or the Looking Back websites through Paypal. If you would like to support my work, you can leave a small tip here of $2, or several small tips, just increase the amount as you like. Your generous patronage of my work and research, however small it appears to you, will greatly help me with my continuing costs.

A$2.00