Whitley Library reopens this week

We are pleased to announce the reopening of Whitley Library tomorrow (Thursday 22^nd April), following the successful return of Central Library, Caversham, Tilehurst and Battle Libraries.

 Whitley Library in south Reading will reopen initially for 3 hours per week, from 1-4 pm. You can view details on the reopening, including new opening times.

From Thursday 22nd April, Whitley Library, which is located within South Reading Community Hub, will offer:

• returns – to entrance when the library is open
• order and collect (book online or via 0118 937 5950)
• limited computer bookings (via 0118 937 5950)

If you are visiting the library you will be reminded to follow safety precautions, including the wearing of face coverings inside the building and for the use of computers, test and trace registration will be required.

Working in line with current national safety guidance, we will look to continue the planned phase of reopening of our wider library services where possible and with safety at the forefront of all our plans.

Whilst the libraries are currently operating on reduced hours, once all branches are open, we will look to extend the range of services and opening hours where possible.

Our current plan is for Southcote library to reopen during the week commencing 3^rd May and Palmer Park library to reopen during the week commencing 17^th May. Both these libraries would also reopen initially for 3 hours a week.

You can now book online to visit your local library in Central, Tilehurst, Caversham (and from Thursday at Whitley or by calling 0118 937 5950).

Borrowed items are not due back until all branches are open but book drops are currently available at Central, Caversham, Battle library - and no fines are being charged.

Since Central Library reopened, the service has seen around 13,000 visitors in total across the network, with 25,000 new books issued and around 3,000 home visits.

Reading Library’s popular e-service continues to be available. The virtual Reading Library boasts a huge range of instant access to free online resources, including eBooks, eMagazines and eAudio. New library members can register instantly online and there are lots free online learning resources.