More services available at Ryedale’s libraries

The sites managed by North Yorkshire County Council at Malton and Pickering are now offering limited access to public computers.

Computers have been placed to allow for two-metre social distancing and will be cleaned between each use.

The number of computers available at each library is reduced because of this safety measure, so people must contact their library to check availability before visiting.

Computer sessions are likely to be limited to 45 minutes and must be booked by calling or emailing the library in advance. If people think they may need extra time, they should discuss this with staff. To minimise risk, there will be no cash transactions at this time, so people wanting print-outs can have five A4 copies for free.

Community-managed libraries across the area also offer computer facilities. People should check with their local library to see what arrangements are in place.

The Home Library Service is also up and running.

Before lockdown, the library service was delivering books to more than 1,600 people across the county.

Cllr Greg White, Executive Member for Libraries, said: “Safety of customers, staff and our volunteers are our primary concern, so there won’t be as many PCs available.

“This is another step towards getting our libraries fully open again.”

The aim is that from the end of July customers will be able to browse and pick their own books.

All details and updates can be found on the County Council’s website, www.northyorks.gov.uk/CovidLibraries Alternatively, if people have queries they can call their local library or the library helpline number, 01609 533878.