Increased Access to Public Library Services proposed in Phase 2 of Re-Opening Roadmap

Katie O Connor

There has been an explosion of reading in recent times with more than 5,000 people now using Wexford County Council libraries’ e-book service.

 

As we approach Phase 2 of the Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, the good news for library lovers is that all five Wexford libraries are planning to increase their services to the public. While the full extent of library facilities will not be available for some time yet, the public can look forward to enjoying the following services

 

  1. “Contact and Collect” – by appointment only.

Choose your genre/subject area and our library staff will pick out up to 6 books/DVDs/CDs for you. You will then be given an appointment to collect these items from your local library. Contact us in any of the following ways:

 

  • On-line          Fill out our simple online form: www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries
  • Email             libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie
  • Phone           053-9196000 – Dial 3 (9.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday
  • operational from phase 2)

 

Please note we hope to restore our regular reservation service soon.

 

  1. Book Returns – no appointment needed.

Drop your items in the returns bin just outside the collection area and go. Please check with your local library for returns hours. If you also wish to borrow books, please contact us first and we will arrange an appointment for you.

 

  1. Book Delivery Service

Elderly, vulnerable or cocooning citizens can request books and we will deliver these directly to your door. Phone: 053-9196000 9.30-5.30 Monday to Friday. More than 2,000 items have now been delivered via our Book Call Service.

 

  1. You can continue to use your library online!

Don’t forget, you can access our library services online, 24/7. These online services will continue to be available as we move through the re-opening phases. You can:

  • join the library online;
  • download eBooks and eAudiobooks;
  • read magazines and newspapers
  • take eLearning or language courses;
  • watch or listen to storytimes; or,
  • take part in other activities like online bookclubs.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Michael Sheehan said “We are delighted to be able to offer physical loans to the public by appointment when we move to Phase 2. While it is likely to be some time before full library services can resume, we hope that members of the public will understand the need for a phased approach to re-opening our libraries which is being guided by public health advice. We particularly look forward to being able to offer bags of books to takeaway to children and young people who have missed their regular supply of books from their local library in recent times.”