KEMPSEY Shire Library staff are changing the way residents read books and access services while they continue to adapt to coronavirus restrictions.
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Despite local branches still being closed, council staff have been busy working behind the scenes to ensure that the libraries continue to play a role in the community.
From this week, a new Click and Collect service will be introduced at Kempsey, South West Rocks and Stuarts Point branches. The service will begin with members who had reserves waiting before the shutdown, but should expand in the coming days to new reservations.
Library manager Angie Meers said the service allows members to once again borrow physical books and resources but to conduct the borrowing process online or over the phone.
"While we look forward to the day we can reopen our doors to the community, this service allows us to help residents who aren't able to access e-resources and are missing their library books," she said.
The service has been designed to be easy to use. All members need to do is go to the library's website and reserve the titles they would like to borrow. Once an order is placed the items are packed and labelled by staff and placed in a contact-less chute for collection.
Deliveries will also restart for members registered to the house-bound service. If members don't have internet access they can call the library.
Ms Meers said staff have also taken advantage of the library being closed to update library facilities and services.
"We have new furniture for our Kempsey branch which has let us change the layout for a better member experience," she said.
"We've also upgraded services and increased the borrowing options online of audio books, e-books and increased the number of plays for live streaming films and documentaries."
For more information and to access the library's Click and Collect service go to kempsey.nsw.gov.au/library. Alternatively, call and speak to a staff member on 6566-3210.
