Covid-19

Update as of March 24th 2021

Following the Government announcement about the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions, Kirklees library service is working towards being able to start opening facilities when possible after April 12th. This will be dependent on a number of factors and as restrictions are eased further, the library service will adapt the service it delivers accordingly, in line with official guidance, particularly regarding social distancing and capacity in inside spaces.

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KLS is still working hard to enhance its library service online. 

A dedicated website has been set up:  www.kirkleeslibraries.co.uk/resources 

This contains links galore to the current online services (including “how to” guides) as well as sections on Wellbeing; Creative Children; Creative Adults; Making Reading Fun, Staying Safe; and Learning Resources.

A Library Adventures newsletter is being emailed out weekly to all library staff and volunteers as well as anyone else who signs up for it. This will promote the available service and included:

    • A book review of the week, booklist of the week and website of the week – these were all aimed at children.
  • Libby, which offers e:books and audiobooks. Thousands of additional titles have been added to the stock.
  • PressReader, which gives free access to 7,000 national and international newspapers and magazines.

KLS is also using other forms of social media – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram – all using @kirkleeslibraries.

New customers can now register online and get a temporary card number and PIN that lets them access the online service. KLS staff have diverted library phones to their homes so they can provide existing customers with their PIN or sign up new customers over the phone.

There is an intention to call all borrowers aged over 70 and all those listed as visually impaired to check on their wellbeing and signpost them to services.

Kirklees has set up a Covid 19 Community Response Team which is working with community groups and organisations to help support vulnerable and isolated residents. Some of our regular library staff have been deployed onto this team, dealing with Requests and Offers.

If you know of anyone needing help, or wanting to offer help, the forms are on this link:

www.kirklees.gov.uk/beta/advice-support-and-sharing/covid-19-community-response.aspx.

The Denby Dale Centre is also co-ordinating help for people locally.