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Public access to library computers will be available from next week (Monday 20 July) as part of the phased return of South Tyneside library services.

Â鶹ÊÓƵ libraries reopened on 6 July, enabling people to pre-order, return and collect books on an appointment-only basis.

From Monday 20 July, the ground floor of libraries within The Word, Hebburn Central, Jarrow Focus and Cleadon Park Primary Care Centre, will also be reopened giving people time-limited access to the computer facilities.

However, restrictions will remain in place, with computers only available to those who have pre-booked a 50-minute slot. Bookings are being taken from this Thursday (16 July). Toilets will be available for library users only. No other facilities, including cafes, will be available at this time. Strict social distancing rules will be observed.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, Deputy Leader of Â鶹ÊÓƵ and Lead Member for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "We know how important libraries are to our residents. While the facilities available continue to be limited, slowly reintroducing more services is a step towards getting our libraries back to being fully operational again.

"Of course, the safety of our staff and residents is our top priority and we must continue to restrict the number of visitors in our libraries at any one time.

"Residents must book an appointment to visit their local library - whether they want to take out new books or use library computers. It's really important people do not just turn up without having arranged their appointment first.

"Due to social distancing, staff will also be limited on the amount of support they can give to help people navigate computer screens. Whilst everyone is welcome, the time slots may be more beneficial to competent computer users at this time.

"We will continue to monitor how the new arrangements are working while ensuring social distancing continues to be observed."

Libraries continue to operate with reduced hours. For further information about opening times and computer availability, residents are encouraged to contact their local branch.

Appointments can be booked by phone: The Word (0191) 427 1818; Hebburn Central: (0191) 424 7831; Jarrow Focus: (0191) 489 7786 and Cleadon Park: (0191) 424 6194.

In Phase Three, next month, the Council is aiming to introduce time limited browsing of selected shelves, which will be emptied and cleaned at the end of the day.

Library members can continue to use the range of online services available, with 24-hour access to hundreds of ebooks, eAudiobooks and online magazines - all free to download. Those not already registered as library members, can still sign up online and begin accessing the online services straightaway.

For further information about South Tyneside Libraries, or to join the library, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/libraries Keep up to date with South Tyneside Libraries on social media, on Facebook southtynesidelibraries and STynesideCouncil and on Twitter @SouthTyneLibs and @STyne_Council