A number of the borough’s libraries are set to welcome back visitors from Monday 12 April, after months of being closed due to the outbreak of COVID-19,

Northolt Leisure Centre Library, Southall Library in the Dominion Centre, Jubilee Gardens Library, as well as the Acton Town library within the Everyone Active Acton Centre will re-open their doors to the public on Monday, in line with the government’s roadmap.

Among other things, people will be able to borrow books, browse for books for 15 minutes, access the computers for up to 45 minutes and benefit from a click and collect service including reservations. There will be temporary reduced opening hours at these libraries.

In accordance with government guidelines visitors will be required to maintain social distancing and wear face coverings as well as adhere to other COVID-19 safety measures.

It is hoped that a full service will be offered in these libraries after 21 June.

The borough’s Community Managed Libraries; West Ealing, Hanwell, Northfields and Perivale Libraries, are preparing to also open from Monday onwards.

Libraries that remain closed

Some of Ealing’s other libraries are currently being used as Community Testing Centres and services will not return to these libraries until at least the end of June. These are: Ealing Central Library, Northolt Library and Greenford Library.

It is planned that the Everyone Active Acton Centre will continue to provide testing as well as a temporary reduced library service.

Ealing Council’s library service manager, Manny Manoharan, said: “We are very pleased to be able to welcome people back to our libraries after such a long time away. We have taken rigorous steps to ensure it is a safe environment for users to enjoy once more – we have missed you and are looking forward to your visit!”

More information and library opening hours is available on the council’s website.

Step out of lockdown

Next Monday, 12 April marks the second step out of lockdown with further easing of restrictions. The main change is that the majority of retail, outdoor hospitality and indoor gyms will be reopening. Residents that do go out are reminded to follow the public health guidance, in particular, hands, face, space and fresh air. You can find out more about the steps out of lockdown on the government’s website.

See more information on council services affected on the council’s website.