Following the Welsh Government’s announcement that Libraries can reopen under new regulations, Gwynedd Council has confirmed that six libraries will be able to provide a service to the public from 1 July.
However, the service offered will be different to the usual, and you will need to contact the library in advance to order books. The library will then contact the user when the books are ready to collect, and arrange a time for doing so.
For those unable to visit their library to collect books – for whatever reason – books can be ordered for home delivery. This service will be for everyone living in Gwynedd. Once again, Gwynedd residents are asked to contact their library to order books, and one of the Library’s vehicles will call at the home with those books once they are ready.
For those who previously used the Home Library Service, this will be restarting in its new format soon, and the drivers will contact all users of the Home Library Service directly in advance to explain the new system.
Councillor Gareth Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said: “I am delighted that Gwynedd Council will be reintroducing an element of the library service.
“Of course, the service available to Gwynedd residents will be different to what it was before the libraries closed, but the new system is designed to ensure the health and well-being of residents and staff while offering an opportunity for the people of the county to access the wealth of material available from our libraries.
“We know that books offer great comfort to people of all ages, so it is important that we can begin the journey of introducing the service in a new way including the home delivery service for those who are unable to collect from the libraries.
“Obviously, the safety of users and staff is the priority, and our libraries will follow Welsh Government guidelines on how to handle library books, to help people’s safety and wellbeing.
“Our hope is that the new arrangements will provide a step back to normality for the many people in Gwynedd who value our library service.”
Nia Gruffydd, Gwynedd Council Libraries Manager, said: “The staff have been working hard to adapt the library space and the home delivery arrangements to begin providing library items to Gwynedd residents once again. We have already received many messages from users saying that they miss the Library service, and have read their books and want something new to read. “
There are many ways to order books – by phone, email or by using the order form on the Gwynedd Libraries web page www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/library – the Library will need your name, address, phone number and card number.
If you are not already a Library member, then you can become a member online or contact your Library.
Libraries providing the service will be: Bangor Library, Caernarfon Library, Pwllheli Library, Blaenau Ffestiniog Library, Dolgellau Library and Tywyn Library. Normal hours will have changed. Here are the contact details below.
Bangor Library
01248 353479
LlBangor@gwynedd.llyw.cymru
Monday – Friday 9am-10am & 4pm-5pm
Some important points to keep in mind:
· A range of materials from the Library Service, including Large Print and Audio Books, can be ordered in Welsh and English. Bag Books are also available which are great for providing a multi-sensory story experience, and are suitable for users with learning difficulties or disabilities. During this time DVDs are also available free of charge.
· No fines are charged on any item.
· Don’t worry about the loan and returning books period – we automatically renew your books.
· Remember that e-books and audio e-books can be borrowed through our digital service Borrowbox
· Some services will not be available at present, such as using a computer and photocopying.
· Safety measures will be in place to protect users and staff.
