Bookworms and students can look forward to dipping into the resources of Singapore’s national libraries again come 1 Jul.
This is because public libraries are finally reopening after almost 3 months.
However, this comes with a set of new rules, such as shorter operational hours and a limited number of visitors allowed inside at a time.
According to Channel NewsAsia (CNA), the National Library, National Archives of Singapore and all public libraries will be open from 11am-7pm everyday.
The basic functions of libraries will be available to all, which are:
You’ll have to get used to “contactless borrowing” too.
All patrons are advised to use the National Library Board (NLB) mobile app when it comes to scanning and borrowing physical library materials.
That’s not all. Among other safe distancing measures that will be put in place include:
Due to the time limit for visitors, it would be wise to make an online booking so that you can enter at your preferred time slot.
Online booking is, however, mandatory for Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the National Archives of Singapore.
NLB will be providing more info on the online booking system later.
If you’ve been wanting to get out of the house to study in a conducive environment – and maybe enjoy seaside views at VivoCity’s library – you’d have to wait a little longer though.
As of 1 Jul, seating and study areas, including newspaper and multimedia stations, won’t be available to public.
All programmes, guided tours, and events are still cancelled as well.
Libraries have been closed since 7 Apr since the government went into ‘Circuit Breaker’ mode. Though they were supposed to reopen on 4 May, the reopening has been postponed due to stricter measures to contain the outbreak.
As we rejoice to getting back some semblance of normalcy in our lives, let’s not forget that Covid-19 is still a threat in society.
If you’re heading out to libraries, or any public area for that matter, do remember to wear a mask, maintain good personal hygiene, and keep a safe distance from people.
A recap of their announcement right before ‘Circuit Breaker’:
Featured image adapted from Google Maps.
The coroner said this was the first case of its kind he had encountered in…
The brand-new jet suffered a series of technical issues since its first-ever flight on 19…
The Paradise Tree Snake may have misjudged its landing and ended up on the car.
The 69-year-old was reportedly upset over his neighbour's refusal to apologise.
False claims include that GCB transactions occur without government checks on beneficial owners' identities.
The suspect casually watched as the woman became consumed by flames.