Cumbria County Council has announced when libraries in the local area will re-open.

The council confirmed that the county’s six main library buildings in Carlisle, Penrith, Whitehaven, Workington, Kendal and Barrow will reopen to the public on Monday, August 10.

Councillor Deborah Earl, cabinet member for public health and communities, said: “Our teams are working hard to reopen our six main libraries and I know just how much everyone has missed their local library.

“Things will be slightly different when we re-open as we need to be sure that we keep everyone safe, that includes our customers and staff.

“To re-open safely we need all sorts of new equipment such as protective screens, PPE, hand sanitiser points, new signage and additional staff training across our six buildings.

“Each library will be sharing their progress for reopening on Facebook so you can follow their build up to the 10th.”

Library staff have installed clear signage to enable visitors to manoeuvre buildings safely and hand sanitisers will be located at entrance and exit points.

Unfortunately not all library activities will resume when the buildings re-open, however there will still be plenty of resources available for the public to enjoy.

Library members can continue to take advantage of the council's online library services, members can get free access to eBooks, magazines and much more.

The council have said there will be a phased approach to re-opening other libraries, as the county council continues to put Covid-secure measures in place.

You can become a member at cumbria.gov.uk/libraries .