Eurobodalla Council’s library click and collect service closed on (Monday 30 March) at 5pm.
Libraries manager Sam Fenton said the evolving COVID-19 situation and new directives from the Australian and NSW Governments prompted the decision.
As a further safety measure, books will no longer be accepted via return chutes at the three libraries. Instead, borrowers are asked to keep their items at home. They will be automatically renewed until further notice.
Ms Fenton said the click and collect option had been popular but dropped off significantly in recent days.
“We see this as a positive,” she said, “It shows people are getting the message to stay at home.”
Ms Fenton encouraged residents to explore the libraries’ free online offerings, including Borrow Box, which allows readers to borrow up to five e-books and five audiobooks at a time, with new titles every month.
“All that’s needed is the internet and a library membership, which is free,” Ms Fenton said.
To become a library member, complete the form online or give the staff a call on weekdays between 10am and 5pm.
Library staff in Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma will continue to answer customer phone calls and emails on weekdays throughout the closure.
Explore the libraries’ online collections at www.esc.nsw.gov.au/libraries
Find Council updates and facility closures at www.esc.nsw.gov.au/coronavirus
Above: The click and collect service has ended, but readers can get their fix from Eurobodalla libraries’ online offerings.
