Wolverhampton's Central Library has marked a new chapter after reopening its doors to customers on Monday – for the first time since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The library is open for controlled browsing and computer use, with capacity limited to enable social distancing and ensure the safety of staff and customers.

A total of 16 customers are allowed into the library at any one time and, to control numbers, people must book a 30 minute session in advance by calling 01902 552025. Customers must be a member of the library service to book a session and must also wear a face covering indoors in line with national regulations, unless they are exempt.

Robert Johnson, City Librarian, said: "It has been great to have members back at Central Library, and our staff have enjoyed it as much as our customers.

"Over the coming weeks we plan to open more branch libraries for controlled browsing and computer use, in such a way that keeps customers and staff safe." 

From Monday 26 April, Bilston, Warstones and Wednesfield libraries will reopen for controlled browsing and computer use, with Finchfield and Tettenhall reopening the following week. As is the case with Central Library, people will need to book sessions in advance.

Meanwhile, the Select and Collect service, which enables customers to reserve and pick up books and other items, is continuing. Library members can pre-order titles online at Libraries, by emailing libraries@wolverhampton.gov.uk or by calling 01902 552025, and collect them at a pre-arranged time from Central, Warstones, Finchfield, Bilston, Tettenhall and Wednesfield libraries. 

From Tuesday 4 May, Select and Collect will be extended to East Park, Whitmore Reans, Low Hill and Spring Vale libraries, with dedicated collection times at each branch once a week. The libraries themselves will remain closed to customers at this time.

Members can also continue to download bestselling eBooks and eAudiobooks for free via the BorrowBox library app on Apple or Android phones, tablets and computers.

It's free to join Wolverhampton's libraries – to find out more, please visit Libraries, call 01902 552025 or follow the library service on social media at Facebook and Twitter.