Six Edinburgh libraries will be reopening from tomorrow (Tuesday 6 October) as part of a phased plan.
In addition community access to secondary school sports facilities is scheduled to start next month in line with the latest Scottish Government and health guidance.
The six libraries are: Central, Fountainbridge, Stockbridge, McDonald Road, Newington and Kirkliston.
At the start services will be restricted with numbers within buildings limited and social distancing measures in place including face coverings being mandatory.
To browse and borrow books, use a public computer, apply for a National Entitlement Card (bus pass) or collect hearing aid batteries visits will need to be booked online or by phoning the library direct.
Returning books and picking up free sanitary products will not require a booking.
Community access to sports facilities in secondary schools is scheduled to start from Monday 2 November in seven schools: Queensferry, Balerno, Forrester & St Augustine’s campus, Broughton, Portobello and Leith Academy.
Initially, it will be extended lets only for both indoor and outdoor facilities at these venues. Other community activities including swimming lessons, fitness classes and public swimming will return on a phased approach between November and January 2021.
The remaining schools are scheduled to re-open week commencing Monday, 16 November.
The community access to schools is managed by Edinburgh Leisure on behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council.
For clubs with their own premises, such as changing rooms and toilets within school grounds, specifically the Royal High School and Balerno High School, they will be able to access the pitches with immediate effect by contacting the Council.
Culture and Communities Convener Cllr Donald Wilson said:
It’s a really positive step forward that these six libraries are opening to the public ahead of schedule as they are invaluable resources for our local communities.
This phased reopening, which will also see community access to sports facilities in secondary schools start up again next month, is an important step in our plans for a phased reopening of community assets across the city.
Libraries are a vital requirement in any democratic society, giving access to knowledge and literature, helping to bridge the digital divide and also centres for strengthening local communities.
Culture and Communities Vice Convener Cllr Amy McNeese-Mechan said:
We really appreciate everyone’s support and patience as we gradually reopen our libraries, welcoming people back into their local spaces.
Although services will be limited initially due to current restrictions, with an online booking service for some such as browsing and borrowing, I’m sure everyone will fully appreciate that our top priority remains the health of our residents and library colleagues.
This cautious approach demonstrates our commitment and recognition of the importance of public libraries in this, the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.
ENDS.