These Milton Keynes libraries will reopen next week

Central Library will continue to be used as a Coronavirus testing centre until further notice.

Currently, the library administers rapid Covid testing to Milton Keynes workers who have to leave the house. Alongside people who need to complete their work on site, the testing centre is also available for informal carers, looking after friends, family and neighbours who are shielding against the virus.

Central Library is the only library under Milton Keynes Council jurisdiction that is not reopening.

At the moment, libraries are running a click and collect service, but will be reopening its doors on Tuesday April 13.

Bletchley, Kingston, Newport Pagnell, Westcroft and Wolverton Libraries will be welcoming visitors between these hours from April 13 as per a spokesperson from the Milton Keynes Council:

Tuesday - 10am-4.30pm

Wednesday - 10am-4.30pm

Thursday - 10am-4.30pm

Friday - 10am-4.30pm

Saturday - 10am-12.30pm

Olney Library will be open from April 13 at the following times:

Wednesday - 10am-1pm

Friday - 1pm-4.30pm

Saturday - 10am-12.30pm

Stony Stratford and Woburn Sands Libraries are available to visit between these hours:

Tuesday - 10am-1pm

Thursday - 1pm-4.30pm

Saturday - 10am-12.30pm

Before April 13, the library click and collect services are available at the times listed below, at the following libraries:

Bletchley, Kingston, Newport Pagnell, Westcroft and Wolverton Libraries

Tuesday - 10am-5pm

Wednesday - 10am-5pm

Thursday - 10am-5pm

Friday - 10am-5pm

Saturday - 10am-1pm

Olney Library

Wednesday -10am-1pm

Friday - 1pm-5pm

Saturday - 10am-1pm

Stony Stratford and Woburn Sands Libraries:

Tuesday - 10am-1pm

Thursday - 1pm-5pm

Saturday - 10am-1pm

Time limits are not being imposed at these libraries but visitors are asked to move through the libraries"as quickly as possible".

Visitors will be asked to provide contact details to assist with NHS Test and Trace or to scan the QR code. Entrances and exits from the library are being recorded, it is requested that when exiting the building that you sign out with the team member at the door as you leave.

Further instructions outlined by the spokesperson state: "Where possible we ask that you visit the library alone. Please do not visit if you feel unwell or are self-isolating. We ask that you keep browsing time to a minimum."

The following services will be available at Milton Keynes libraries:

-"Return books using the self-service kiosks – books can be returned to any of the open libraries

-"Browse for books following social distancing and directional guidance (although we would encourage you to browse online prior to your visit)

-"Borrow books using the self-service kiosks

-"Collect reservations (see additional information here)

-"Pay fines and charges

-"Join the library (we encourage you to join online before your visit to speed up the process)

-"Make online reservations for up to six items (further information is available on the Council's website here, regarding this)

-"Request laminating at Bletchley Library

-"Collect books ordered through the click and collect service."

The council's click and collect service means library members can reserves books online. Its offering a "Pick and Mix" collection for adventurous readers on its website. The council won't be providing bags for visitors, who will therefore need to bring their own.

Members will be contacted via email or letter when their reservation is ready for collection. All items are quarantined for 72 hours once returned.

Milton Keynes libraries are available on the following contact numbers:

Bletchley Library - 01908 372797

Kingston Library - 01908 282720

Newport Pagnell Library - 01908 610933

Olney Library - 01234 711474

Stony Stratford Library - 01908 562562

Westcroft Library - 01908 990780

Woburn Sands Library - 01908 582033

Wolverton Library - 01908 312812

Milton Keynes libraries will not be providing the following services:

-Computers and WiFi

-Seating and study areas

-Printing, photocopying and fax services

-Magazines and newspapers

-The public toilets are closed

Safety measures taken by the libraries include: the availability of hand sanitiser, the enforcement of social distancing at all times, some libraries will use directional signs, barring medical exemption face coverings must be worn at all times, and face masks/gloves may be used by staff and screens/markings have been installed around the buildings.