FRODSHAM Library is to re-open on August 24 following the COVID-19 lockdown, Cheshire West and Chester Council has announced.
Helsby Library will re-open on August 10 with reduced opening hours and a limited service offer.
Other CW&C services will re-open on August 19, including Frodsham’s Saltworks Changing rooms, Castle Park Tennis Pavilion and Castle Park support room.
Following discussions between Brio Leisure and the council’s Public Health team, the sports hall at Frodsham Leisure Centre will open in line with Frodsham Library, which shares the site, in the week commencing August 24..
Other parts of the leisure centre will not re-open due to the layout and nature of the building. This is to ensure the safety of customers and staff members.
Detail of the services that will be available in the sports hall is under consideration and will be announced in due course.
Some other libraries across West Cheshire were able to re-open in July, some offering reduced services.
Council leader Louise Gittins (pictured) said: “Our libraries have already welcomed 18,640 visits across five sites since July 13, which is great news.
“By re-opening our libraries in stages, we can ensure all of the safety precautions are in place and working effectively. Test and trace systems are in place in libraries, archives and museums. Customers are being greeted on arrival and contact information including name, telephone number and time of arrival are being noted, which will be held for 21 days.
“From August 8, face coverings will be required when entering our libraries, archives and museums following the latest Government legislation. This is something we are encouraging people to do now where possible.
“Re-opening the remaining libraries in Hoole, Malpas, Tarporley, Tarvin, Tattenhall, Wharton and the mobile libraries has raised some operational challenges. We are exploring whether an alternative service, such as order and collect, can be offered safely for customers of these sites.”
Currently all library loans are renewed until September 1 and the reservation service is temporarily suspended. The re-instatement of overdue charges and reservations will be reviewed by September.
Since opening, customers have returned 23,436 items and borrowed 16,782 items. Libraries have been operating safely with new layouts and social distancing, health and safety procedures have been maintained throughout.
The public conveniences at Frodsham are due to open on August 21.