Library doors reopened for limited access

City of Parramatta Council is reopening its libraries for limited access from Tuesday 2 June, with increased health and safety measures in line with Federal and State Government guidelines. 

In efforts to minimise physical contact and protect customers and staff, the libraries at Carlingford, Constitution Hill, Dundas, Epping, Ermington, Parramatta and Wentworth Point have introduced a click-and-collect service where customers can pre-order items and pick them up by appointment only. Library members can reserve items online or over the phone (9806 5159) from Monday 1 June. 

"While we are aware how valuable our library services are to the community, our key priority is to ensure that our facilities are reopened in a safe way - for both the community and our staff," City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer said. 

"The way we interact with our libraries may be a little different for a while, but the books themselves and the stories they tell are just as important as ever. As we all continue to spend more time at home, this is the perfect excuse to read a good book - whether it's by yourself or with your children." 

Opening hours, which have been reduced to allow for additional cleaning, will be as follows:

Library members are also able to borrow items from the 24-hour accessible book vending machine at Wentworth Point Community Centre and Library. In addition, the libraries' range of digital offerings, including online databases, e-books, e-magazines, Story Time Online, movies and many other resources remain available. 

Council will continue to review the effectiveness of the current arrangements and look at expanding services to include browsing the library collection and use of public areas with social distancing measures in place at a later stage.

From Monday 1 June, Council's Customer Contact Centre over-the-counter service will also reopen its doors to the public from 9am to 3pm weekdays. 

A number of health and safety measures will be in place, including "sneeze guards", hand sanitiser dispensers, as well as limited customer numbers (in line with the 4 square metres per person requirement), however customers are encouraged to continue to use Council's online and phone services (1300 617 058) where possible.