Eastern Regional Libraries offer free bags of books while branches are closed due to coronavirus
Their branches are closed due to coronavirus restrictions, but libraries in Melbourne’s outer east are helping members stay entertained in the school holidays — and it’s proved to be a big hit.
Outer East
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The coronavirus outbreak isn’t stopping library staff in Melbourne’s outer east from rescuing families needing an entertainment fix in isolation.
Eastern Regional Libraries is offering its members bags of assorted books, magazines and CDs while its branches in Knox, Maroondah and the Yarra Ranges are closed.
Members can contact the libraries via phone or email with a brief note about what genres and topics they’re interested in.
Staff will then put together a random collection of items, arrange a collection time and place the bag outside the library’s front doors for collection.
Eastern Regional Libraries customer experience manager Sarah Hopkins said its branches had given out more than 100 bags so far.
She said the initiative had been popular with young families who had children stuck indoors on school holidays.
“We know some people really rely on the library for things to do and for entertainment and information,” Ms Hopkins said.
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“Everybody’s situation is different so we wanted to create opportunities for the community in a way that was safe.
“And because most of our libraries are located near shopping centres, they can pick it up while they’re doing essential tasks in line with (coronavirus) restrictions.
Although late fines are suspended, members are encouraged to return their bags of items when the libraries re-open on April 14.
Details: yourlibrary.com.au