Did you know the wonderful Hitchin library has opened its doors in the post-lockdown era?

People have been returning to the town's much-loved library since the start of last week after the coronavirus forced the closure of the site at Paynes Park back in March.

Public-spirited staff had been busy working prior to that by operating their successful 'Ready Reads' scheme – where library workers had been selecting books for their loyal readers, who come and collect their requested pack from the front door of the library.

The move was welcomed with excellent feedback from parents and children who were desperate for some fresh reading material during lockdown.

However, with the appropriate measures put in place to protect their customers and staff, the library has opened its doors again and is starting to flourish once more.

Library manager Rebekah Nicolas told Hitchin Nub News: "People can once more browse and borrow books – we have a hand sanitiser station on entry, a one-way system in place and perspex screens at the enquiry desks.

"Returned items are quarantined for 72 hours before being made available for issue again.

"We also have three public-access PCs, which are appropriately distanced, cleaned after each use and available on a pre-booked basis only - it's been great to welcome people back to the library."

Read Hitchin Nub News for regular updates from the town's excellent library.