Liverpool City Council has closed all of the city’s libraries with immediate effect (as of Monday 23 March).
The decision has been taken to ensure the health and wellbeing of both the public and members of staff.
The book loan period has been indefinitely extended so that people who currently have books on loan will not accrue fines
Library users are encouraged to make the most of the free eReading service which allows people to download books, audiobooks, magazines and comics to phones, tablets or e-readers. These can be accessed by downloading a free app.
To find out more about eReading – visit www.liverpool.gov.uk/libraries.
All libraries will be closed. These are:
Allerton Library
Breck Road Community Library
Central Library
Childwall Library
Croxteth Library
Dovecot Community Library
Fazakerley Community Library
Garston Library
Kensington Library
Lee Valley Library
Norris Green Library
Old Swan Library
Parklands Library
Sefton Park Library
Spellow Library
Toxteth Library
Walton Library
Wavertree Library
West Derby Library
If there are any queries about the closures, or the eReading, members of the public can call 0151 233 3069.
The home delivery service to the over 70s will continue. Requests to register for this can be made by ringing 0151 233 2796.
Deputy Mayor and cabinet member responsible for libraries, Councillor Wendy Simon, said: “This isn’t a decision we have taken lightly as we know that our libraries and archives provide a cherished service for many of our residents both young and old. However, we need to do everything we can to protect both citizens and staff.
“These are unprecedented times and we ask for understanding around the difficult decisions that the city council, and organisations and businesses across the city are having to make.”
Last week, all schools in the city shut and the decision was made to close Lifestyles Centre, Walton Soccer Centre, Wavertree, Speke and Kirkdale One Stop Shops and civic buildings including St George’s Hall, Liverpool Town Hall, Croxteth Hall.
For the latest information and advice, Liverpool City Council has also set up an online portal – www.liverpool.gov.uk/coronavirus It has also established dedicated social media feeds at www.facebook.com/covidliverpool and www.twitter.com/covidliverpool
