Orkney Library and Archive reopens

August 17, 2020 at 9:50 am

Orkney Library and Archive, in Kirkwall, will reopen to the public today, Monday, with some restrictions in place.

Users will be asked to book a time slot in advance as admission into the building will only be possible by booking. These can be made via phone on 01856 873166 or by email library@orkney.gov.uk or archives@orkney.gov.uk.

Unfortunately, the main entrance is currently closed for repairs therefore users have to use the temporary back entrance. Please note this is not an automatic door. A one-way system around the building is in place from the customer carpark to the temporary entrance. There is also a one-way system in place within the building which will lead users throughout and towards the new exit which is at the side of the building.

Users are requested to use the hand sanitiser provided outside the building before using the door handle. A member of staff will be inside to welcome visitors and a one-way system will operate around the shelves in the library and around the inside of the building.

All users need to

wear a face-covering when inside the building
use hand sanitiser – frequent use is encouraged
maintain physical distancing from other users during your visit.

Booking is essential, time slots will be limited and there will be a limited number of library users allowed in the building at one time.

The Request and Collect service will continue in Kirkwall and Stromness, meaning users can continue to request books online using the Library Catalogue or by telephoning or emailing either the Orkney or Stromness Library. Users will be contacted to arrange a time slot to collect the books from the Kirkwall Library at the temporary entrance or at the Stromness Library the collection point is the courtyard door. Users can also return items during these opening hours without booking.

Meanwhile, the Home Library Service is available for users that live on the Orkney Mainland who are elderly, vulnerable or self-isolating and unable to travel to Orkney Library and Archive.

A limited service for the Mobile Library is also in operation. As of August 12, this service is available to residents on Stronsay, Sanday, Hoy and Eday. It is limited to users who do not have access to the E-book online service and cannot use the other services being provided. This will be expanded to other island in the coming weeks.

Bookbug sessions will continue online for the foreseeable future.

For further information on the library’s services at this time, you can visit http://www.orkneylibrary.org.uk/coronavirus.htm