Libraries have been closed since March in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, but these new services will enable customers to request books, DVDs and other available materials they would like to borrow as part of a phased reopening.

There will initially be two libraries in each district offering the service from the week commencing Monday 13 July. The first 12 libraries are:

• Cheltenham
• Up Hatherley
• Longlevens
• Quedgeley
• Cinderford
• Coleford
• Moreton
• Cirencester
• Tewkesbury
• Bishops Cleeve
• Stroud
• Wotton

The services that will be available are:

Off the shelf - we select you collect:

You complete an online form stating the type of books or other items you would like and staff then select on your behalf from the stock held at the library you have chosen. You will then receive an email asking you to choose a time slot for collection. Customers will be able to make requests online from Friday 10 July.

Reserve & Collect:

To reserve and collect, you simply search the online catalogue, find the items you wish to borrow and reserve them. When the item(s) arrive at your selected library, you will receive an email asking you to select a time slot for collection.

Ring & Read:

If you do not have internet access, from Monday 13 July you will be able to call one of the 12 libraries listed and request the type of stock or title required that can then be collected.

To browse the online catalogue and make your selections visit: https://gloucestershire.spydus.co.uk 

For more information and updates please see:

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/libraries/covid-recovery-reopening-and-service-availability/ 

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/libraries/our-response-to-covid-19-accessing-library-services-from-home/ 

All collections will be managed with social distancing. If you haven't yet joined your local library and want to browse our digital catalogue and take advantage of this new service, go to www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/libraries/join-the-library/ 

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member for libraries at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "We know how much people value libraries so we're pleased to offer these new services from next week. Our digital service has been extremely popular, but we appreciate it's not quite the same as being able to borrow what you want from your local library, so we hope this will provide the reading material you wish to enjoy."

He continued: "I'm very grateful for all the hard work that library staff are continuing to do behind the scenes. I'm sure these new services will prove to be popular and is the first part of the gradual reopening of our libraries."