GEORGE NEWS - Libraries reopened to the public on Monday 8 February after they were closed in December 2020 when national and local infection rates reached its peak.

Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz said libraries offer a valuable service to communities and the municipality is happy that they could reopen. 

"It is especially good that our libraries in Thembalethu and Pacaltsdorp can reopen, as these have been closed for longer as they were situated in former Covid-19 hotspots," said Gratz.

All Covid-19 protocols are in place at all libraries. Opening hours remain reduced and admittance to the main library remains by appointment only.

George Libraries manager Rachel Williams thanked library users for their patience. "Library users who have material on loan need not worry about any fines, as materials were automatically renewed during the recent closure," she said. 

"We are also launching a service in which patrons can select books via the online library portal and e-mail a list of materials they want to loan. Librarians will make up piles of available materials and arrange a time for collection. You can also phone your librarian to inquire about a book-by-phone service."

The George Municipality library portal link is wc.slims.gov.za/desktop/desktopwcgeplge. You can search online according to author, title, subjects, keyword, publisher or ISBN number. 

Type in your library number on your card to check your library materials' status, including the due date and the opportunity to renew your books yourself.

'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'