Residents in some parts of the borough will once again be able to peruse the shelves of their local library as Bolton Council continues the phased reopening of services.
Breightmet, Farnworth, Harwood, Horwich and Westhoughton community libraries will welcome back visitors from Monday (August 17) with browsing and computers available as part of an extended offer.
Both Central Library and Bolton Museum, which reopened to the public last month, will also have longer opening hours.
Residents are urged to check opening times before visiting and those that prefer to use the order and collect service can continue to do so.
Social distancing and hand hygiene measures will be in place, maximum capacities will apply, and visitor details will be recorded to assist with NHS Test and Trace.
In accordance with Government guidance updated on August 8, members of the public visiting libraries, museums or galleries are required to wear a face covering.
Cllr Hilary Fairclough, Executive Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said:
“We all know what a valuable service our local libraries provide to the community.
“By delivering a phased reopening we aim to strike the right balance between reintroducing these vital services and keeping everyone safe.
“Our libraries and museums team have done an excellent job adjust to challenging conditions during this pandemic but I’m delighted to see these early steps towards our libraries returning to normal.”
All library buildings were closed to the public on March 23 in line with the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The council extended its Home Library Service to ensure vulnerable residents and those who are shielding could have books delivered directly.
Staff produced themed online activities to help keep people connected to the library and museum, helping residents learn new skills and expand their knowledge.
A wide range of free eBooks, eAudio books and eMagazines continue to be available on the library service website.
For the latest updates, follow the Library and Museum Service on Facebook and Twitter.