Toowoomba Regional Council’s libraries will move to the next stage of the re-opening of libraries from the week commencing Monday 16 November. With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, libraries will see increased services and extension of operating hours.
TRC Library and Cultural Services portfolio leader Cr Tim McMahon said the easing of restrictions finds us another step closer to normality.
“There will also be some extra service offerings and the extension opening hours across all libraries based on a community needs basis,” Cr McMahon said.
“The next stage will see the relaxation of time limits, including the removal of 30-minute browsing.
“There will be increased access to public computers and newspapers will again be provided for our customers.
“The meeting rooms at Oakey, Clifton and Yarraman libraries will be available to the public under COVID-19 safety requirements.
“Customers can also continue to return their borrowed items to our return chutes.
Cr McMahon said the staged re-opening of library buildings and services includes practical measures to help residents comply with the updated health instructions.
“The easing of restrictions is in line with the state government’s staged COVID-19 Roadmap to Easing Restrictions,” Cr McMahon said.
“Libraries, like many other facilities, need to comply with state and federal social distancing and total attendance figure guidelines.
“Council will still be required to do the standard COVID requirements of contact tracing, sanitising and social distancing.
Cr McMahon said patrons must follow hygiene practices when visiting local libraries.
“Hand sanitiser would be available at libraries’ front entrances,” Cr McMahon said
“Staff will regularly wipe down exposed surfaces including self-issue kiosk screens, computer monitors, keyboards, seats and touch screens.
“Council has these measures in place to ensure staff and library visitors can safely resume more services.”
Cr McMahon said we are still encouraging people to use our popular Reserve and Collect service.
“The system has worked well and allows library users to reserve books, magazines and DVDs, through the library’s online catalogue or the MyTRLibrary APP,” Cr McMahon said.
“As reserved items become available for collection customers will be alerted by their chosen notification method of email, phoned message, or letter.
“Online membership is available for new members through the ‘Using Your Library’ page on the library’s website, while customers can also join in person in branches.
“Our e-library resources continue to be available to the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“We are grateful for residents’ continued patience as we move to resume services.”
