West Lothian libraries and museums are returning to usual services on a phased basis.
Following confirmation by the Scottish Government of the lifting restrictions such as physical distancing and household numbers, changes are being made to the service currently provided.
Library customers will be able to access their favourite books faster, with the 72-hour quarantine for returned materials no longer required.
Appointments are no longer be required to browse in any West Lothian Council library or community museum, although numbers will be limited for safety reasons.
Due to demand, Click and Collect will remain, and customers will be contacted when reserved items are available to pick up from a designated collection point, at any time during library opening hours.
Face coverings are still required unless you are exempt, and Test and Protect procedures through Check in Scotland is still in place.
Customers will be encouraged to wipe down touch points before and after use on machines such as self-check machines, PCs and photocopiers, with use of self-check machines promoted to reduce contact with staff.
Vice-chair of the Culture and Leisure Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel (PDSP), Councillor Cathy Muldoon, said: “I’m delighted to see our library and museum services making a safe and gradual return to normal service. We know these services are highly regarded by the West Lothian community, and this will ensure access to them is increased. The safety of our customers and staff is our top priority, with the phased approach aiming to protect everyone.”
Further changes to services come into effect from Monday (August 30) including the restricted numbers allowed access at the one time being removed, increased access to public access PCs, gradual re-introduction of activities such as Bookbug sessions and museum education visits.
Volunteers and partner services, such as Macmillan Cancer Support and Access2employment, are also allowed to return to libraries.
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