Boyd Library is back!

The council’s knowledge city portfolio chair Cr Jackie Watts joined librarians at Boyd Library on June 9 to celebrate the facility’s reopening following COVID-19 restrictions.

The council announced on June 1 that it was managing the staged re-opening of its libraries, recreation centres and community sporting fields as COVID-19 restrictions were eased across the state.

Lord Mayor Sally Capp said select council facilities would begin to reopen with strict capacity and physical distancing rules.

“We know people have been missing community facilities such as libraries and pools but safety is our first priority so we will take a staged approach to re-opening,” the Lord Mayor said.

Cr Capp said pedestrian numbers had increased by more than 20 per cent over the past month but

“However, we cannot rush back to the way things were. It’s vital we work together, follow physical distancing guidelines and maintain good hygiene practices to help keep our community safe.”

Along with Southbank Library at Boyd Community Hub, the City of Melbourne re-opened City Library, Kathleen Syme Library, North Melbourne Library, Library at the Dock and East Melbourne Library on June 9.

Chair of the Knowledge City portfolio Cr Dr Jackie Watts said that libraries were reopening with restricted patron numbers and reduced hours.

“The safety of our staff and the community is vital as we re-open our much-loved libraries,” Cr Watts said.

“Access to our libraries will be prioritised for people who are unable to access the internet at home, those facing social isolation and people experiencing economic hardship.”

“For people unable to return to our branches, I certainly encourage them to continue using our digital library services.”

“Since COVID-19 restrictions began, we’ve experienced a huge surge in demand for e-library services, including a 76 per cent increase in eBook loans and a 59 per cent increase in eAudio-book usage. Evidence shows that Libraries are well understood as a fundamental resource to our community.” •