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COVID Safe Libraries

Frequently asked questions about COVID Safe visitor guidelines and services at our libraries. We are excited to welcome you back.

  • Is my branch open?

    Most branches have re-opened with their normal operating hours.

    Blackwater library remains closed on Saturdays until further notice.

  • Can i still use the Click and Collect service?

    Our Click and Collect service will continue to operate with limited services. This means you will still be able to reserve and collect items from outside your local library quickly and fuss-free during opening times.

  • What social distancing measures are in place?

    Libraries are following the recommended Queensland Government guidelines for businesses activities and undertakings.

    Please also take care to maintain a distance of 1.5 m between you and other customers or staff.

    A hand sanitising station will be available at each branch for your use, and you are encouraged to pay via card for Princh printing transactions.

    Our staff will also be observing strict social distancing, and so will remain 1.5 m away from you at all times.

  • What can I expect when i arrive at the library?

    Each library will be slightly different. Larger branches may have staff at the door who will be keeping track of numbers in the library. Please take note of any signage, and as always, our friendly library staff will be on hand to assist you.

  • Are all the library services available now?

    Our services are currently limited to ensure public safety.

    A limited number of public computers will be available for booking of 30 minutes per day, and self-service printers are also in operation at each branch via the Princh app and website.

    Our staff are still available to assist you, however they this will be over the circulation / front desk only.

    The Princh printing service is always available from the comfort of home. You can order online and then pop in to pick up your document.

    Our children’s toys and craft resources will be unavailable, as well as newspapers. All face-to-face programming is still suspended and will resume at a later date.

    First5Forever programs are scheduled to return when school recommences in February 2022. Activities will include take-away craft packs, Facebook live sessions and videos.

    Our CHRC Library Service is implementing the new Justice of the Peace service. If you need a JP please contact your nearest branch as listed below:

    • Blackwater – Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays
    • Emerald – Weekdays
    • Gemfields – Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
    • Rolleston – Thursdays, and Fridays

    Capella and Springsure

    • Please contact the Capella and Springsure council offices directly to enquire about services available
  • Does the number of people allowed include children?

    Yes it does. You can enter the library with your children as long as you follow social distancing guidelines.

  • Can staff still assist me with computers and printing

    Yes, but we will be observing strict social distancing so we will be helping you from a distance of at least 1.5 m.

  • I’ve had a book on loan since before closure, do I need to return it?

    Yes, where possible please return any items that would now be due. Our after-hours returns chutes are always available.

  • How long can i borrow my items for?

    All items, including DVDs, can still be borrowed for a period of 60 days. Loans can also be renewed or extended.

    Adults can still have up to 20 items on loan at one time, and children up to 10 items.

    Electronic resources such as BorrowBox, Libby, LinkedIn Learning, National Geographic, and National Geographic Kids are always available.

  • How will i know how many people are inside?

    Where possible, a library staff member will let you know how many people are inside and whether it is safe for you to enter the library.

    Keep an eye out for signage that indicates that the library is at capacity. If the library is at full capacity, you will need to wait outside (and observe social distancing) until someone leaves.

    Please also understand that library staff may ask you to conclude your business and leave the library if you have been inside for an hour to allow entry for someone who is waiting.

  • Is there contact tracing in my library?

    Yes. You will be asked to complete your Queensland Check-in or contact tracing paper form when you enter the library, this includes providing your name, email address and phone number.

    Staff are conducting random checks to confirm that visitors are checked-in.

  • How long can I stay in the library?

    Due to social distancing restrictions, we encourage you to complete your tasks and exit the library as soon as possible or take advantage of our Click and Collect service.

    We appreciate your understanding that if there are people outside waiting, our library team will request that customers finalise their borrowing in order to allow other people to enter.

    We ask that you conclude your visit to the library within one hour.

Last updated: 6 October 2020

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