A new service is set to become available for users of Gloucestershire libraries enabling them to collect items.

Libraries have been closed since March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and cannot be fully reopened yet.

The new service will ensure customers can request books, DVDs and other available materials that they would like to borrow and book a slot for collection.

To reserve and collect, you simply browse through the online catalogue, find the items you wish to borrow and reserve them.

You will then be sent an email with a link to select a slot to collect the items.

Alternatively, an 'off the shelf' service will also be available where you can choose the type of stock you wish to borrow, instead of specific items, and library staff will select something for you. When it is available you will be sent an email inviting you to choose when you would like to collect it.

If you do not have internet access staff will arrange for a 'ring and read', where a customer will call and request the type of stock or title required that can then be collected, or 'home delivery' service.

All collections will be managed with social distancing and the online catalogue is available here.

If you haven't yet joined your local library and want to browse our digital catalogue and take advantage of this new collection service, click here.

This service will be available from July 13 and a list of the libraries that will be offering it will be announced in due course.

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member for libraries at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "We know how much people value libraries, so we're pleased to be able to offer this new service. 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.

"These reserve and collect and off the shelf services will allow you to select reading material and then arrange to collect it from the library.

"I'm grateful for all the hard work staff have been doing behind the scenes over the past few months. We hope these services will provide the items people wish to borrow while offering reassurance to those who want to limit their time in public spaces."