Remaining libraries set to reopen throughout September

Dorset Council’s remaining 11 libraries that have been closed since the beginning of the pandemic are set to open their doors from next week.

• From Tuesday 2 September, libraries at Littlemoor, Lytchett Matravers, Portland, Sturminster Newton, Upton and West Moors will reopen.
• From Monday 7 September Corfe Mullen, Crossways and Lyme Regis will reopen
• Wyke Regis and Beaminster will reopen by late September. Dates are yet to be confirmed

This follows the successful reopening of 12 libraries across the Dorset Council area; Blandford, Bridport, Dorchester, Ferndown, Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Sherborne, Swanage, Verwood, Wareham, Weymouth and Wimborne.

Customers will be able to browse the shelves and use the public computers, which will be available for a 45-minute session and should be pre-booked by telephoning in advance.

Opening times are being limited to mornings (please check www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/libraries for which mornings and times)  so teams can work safely in the afternoons to pick and pack bags for the order and collect service – an alternative service for existing customers who are unable to spend time in the library.

For those without online access, orders can be made by telephoning 01305 228400.

Please remember that books and other items borrowed from a library can be returned via the letterbox or to any Dorset library.

We’re asking everyone to wear face coverings when coming to the library, as well as remind people about the importance of keeping up with regular hand washing and staying 2m apart from others.

To keep up to date with changes to the library services follow @DorsetLibraries on Twitter or Facebook.