Is it safe for me to come back into the library?

Everything has been done to make the library as safe a place to visit as possible. All our library buildings have been cleaned and equipment checked before re-opening.

We may need to limit the number of customers in the libraries at any one time so people can observe 2 metre physical distancing. Customers must wear a face covering.

Contact tracing is in place at all libraries, and customers must either use the NZ COVID Tracer app or register their contact details on the form provided.

Hand sanitiser is available at all entrances/exits and we request that you use it before entering the library. Library surfaces are being cleaned regularly during the day. Some shared resources like jigsaws and toys have been temporarily removed and we are promoting contactless payment transactions wherever possible.

People who have been unwell in the last 48 hours, are self-isolating for COVID-19 or who have been tested for COVID-19 and are waiting for their test result should delay their visit.

Why are you doing contact tracing?

We are required to take steps to make sure people can easily record their visit. Contact tracing helps protect visitors, staff and contractors.

We’re encouraging people to use the NZ COVID Tracer app where they can. This helps with rapid contact tracing if it’s required.

Are returned library items being quarantined?

No. Ministry of Health advice is that returned library items present a low risk and that it is safe for them to be reshelved without a quarantine period. If you are concerned, you can wash and dry your hands/use hand sanitiser when using library items at home for the first couple of days.

How long will I have to queue for to get into to the library?

We do expect the libraries to be very busy, especially in the first few days of re-opening. Please be patient and perhaps come back another day if there are a lot of people waiting.

To help us meet demand at all our libraries, we’re asking people to keep their visits short.

Library members can continue to access a wide range of eBooks, audiobooks and magazines from home via our website if they prefer.

Are there any special arrangements for older people?

People aged over 65 years or with a disability will be given priority access during the first hour of opening every day, at each of our libraries.

Can I return items through the library chutes?

Yes. The return chutes opened on Wednesday, 8 September.

Are the usual library entrances open?

In order to manage access to the libraries in a way that keeps our customers safe, each community library will have only one entrance/exit. If you are visiting the City Library please use the main door from the Plaza. Disability access is available.

Why can’t I access all the usual services? When will I be able to?

While a lot of our services are available, unfortunately there are still some services which we can’t provide at Alert Level 2. This includes public programmes where we can’t safely manage physical distancing, such as Storytime sessions for children.

We plan to restart many of our programmes and events at Alert Level 1.

Can I still put items on hold?

Yes. You are welcome to put a hold on an item in the usual way and we will let you know when it is ready to be picked up. Please note that usual hold charges will apply.

Are your Home Services operating?

Yes. We restarted our Home Services programme at Alert Level 2. This programme helps people who have difficulty visiting the library, perhaps because of an illness or disability, access all library resources, including large print and talking books, music, magazines and DVDs. To join or find out more please email us at library@dcc.govt.nz or phone 03 474 3681.

I would prefer not to touch items such as the library self-serve kiosks. Can library staff help me?

Yes, library staff will be able to help you with borrowing and payments.

Are Justices of the Peace available?

No. Justices of the Peace (JPs) will not be back in libraries until level 1.