Saintfield Library reopens following Covid restrictions

Saintfield Library reopens following Covid restrictions

2 September 2020

SAINTFIELD Library is the latest one across the district to reopen to the public.

The Ballynahinch Road facility reopened on Tuesday of last week and will be available for use on 

Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Thursday’s opening hours are noon until 8pm and 10am to 5pm on Thursdays and Fridays. Saturday’s opening hours are 10am until 1pm.

Social distancing measures are in place with the reopening of the library welcomed by Rowallane councillor, Robert Burgess.

He is pleased that the doors have reopened as part of the continued easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

Cllr Burgess said a customer charter has been developed by Libraries NI to help people understand the new operational measures that will be in place for their safety. 

He said it’s his understanding that hand sanitiser will be available for all customers entering the library and a high level of cleaning will take place, with returned books stored for a period before being returned to the shelves.

The Rowallane politician is also reminding library users to follow guidance and maintain social distancing while inside the library.

“Saintfield library is at the heart of the Saintfield community, with the facility used by the young and old alike,” said Cllr Burgess.

“Lockdown restrictions were particularly hard on the area’s senior citizens, many of whom rely heavily upon Saintfield library. I am so pleased that the facility has reopened and that they can once again choose books of their choice.”

The Rowallane politician said that with the nights drawing in, many people will be looking forward to curling up with a good book.

He added: “I know that all library users will follow the guidelines that are in place. It will be great relief for many that they can visit the facility to browse what books are on offer.

“I would also like to thank the staff who no doubt have worked very hard to ensure that everything was in place to ensure that the library could reopen safely. In addition to selecting a book, users will also be able to use computer, printing and photocopying facilities.”