Article Source: Glasgow Life
Last Updated: 11 December 2020 13:16
The following libraries will open by the end of March, depending on localised health and infection rates and subject to Glasgow being in, or below, level three of the Scottish Government’s local Covid protection levels: Anniesland Library, Cardonald Library, Castlemilk Library, Dennistoun Library, Govanhill Library, Hillhead Library, Knightswood Library, Langside Library, Pollok Library, Pollokshields Library, Riddrie Library and Springburn Library.
Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “Everyone deserves the best Glasgow life possible and the opportunities provided by our libraries are central to our aspirations. They are cherished and valued by our citizens and the services they provide offer a lifeline to many. As we recover from the pandemic our libraries will be more vital than ever.
“I’m delighted that more than 8,000 new members have signed up to Glasgow Libraries since the spring. Glaswegians thrive on access to the power of reading, information and discovery as much today as they have done for the past 150 years.
“Whilst suppressing the spread of the virus in our communities must remain the first priority and each reopening must be carefully assessed, we’re committed to reopening our facilities as soon as is safe. I’m pleased that the next phase will see a further 12 community libraries soon able to welcome and support people across our city.”
Councillor David McDonald, Depute Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of Glasgow Life, added: “Taking a phased approach to reopening has allowed Glasgow Life to understand how best to operate our venues in a Covid-19 environment; keeping staff and visitors safe while we are adjusting to the new measures that we’ve had to put in place.
“These have been valuable lessons to ensure that people can feel confident about re-engaging with our services. Whilst visits may look a little different as we work to ensure that the venues are safe for our staff and visitors in the weeks and months ahead, all are welcome to come and use our libraries and benefit from their services.”
More than 8,400 people have joined Glasgow Libraries since the beginning of spring and, with more libraries set to open city-wide, customers will once again be able to refresh their reading materials at their local library. There’s no need to make an appointment to borrow a book from any of the reopened Glasgow libraries, although you may need to queue due to restricted numbers. All overdue library fines will also be waived until end of March.
In what has been a difficult year for many, more than 200 Glasgow Libraries customers took part in a survey which revealed why local libraries are important to the people of Glasgow.
One Pollokshaws Library user, said: “I really need the library due to my mental health and I really missed seeing people. All the staff have been amazing and made me feel safe and welcomed.”
Another library user, who visited Drumchapel Library, said: “I use the library daily. I missed the contact with staff and using the computers. The staff in Drumchapel Library make it a wonderful place to visit.”
In addition to book borrowing, library visitors will once again be able to access computers and the internet for free, with printing available at all re-opened libraries.
A number of the community libraries will provide in-person employability support and financial inclusion advice through the Family Finance scheme. Telephone appointments and face-to-face support with accessing Universal Credit will also be available at selected libraries city-wide in early 2021.
Macmillan at Glasgow Libraries will continue to offer telephone appointments to provide practical and emotional support to people affected by cancer, with face-to-face appointments planned to resume at a number of libraries in early 2021.
In addition to the planned reopening of a further 12 community libraries, Glasgow Life has already reopened 11 libraries, three museums, Tramway, 12 Glasgow Club venues, 58 sports pitches, 19 outdoor and indoor tennis courts and two golf courses, to the public.
However, as is mandatory under level four of the Scottish Government’s strategic framework for managing Covid-19, these venues are temporarily closed until Saturday 12 December.
As well as running community libraries, Glasgow Life operates the city’s culture and sport services, from museums, music venues and community centres, to gyms, outdoor sporting activities and sports centres. The charity also delivers events, from grassroots programmes designed to engage the city to those which put Glasgow on the international map. These activities are designed to enhance the city’s mental, physical and economic wellbeing.
Like many organisations, Glasgow Life has been hit hard by the pandemic. The complete shutdown of its venues in line with Government guidance, together with the cancellation of events and festivals has meant millions of pounds of income is no longer available. Glasgow Life is currently predicting a year-end shortfall in budget of £20.3m as a result of the pandemic. The charity is being supported financially by Glasgow City Council to continue to deliver services and open venues where this is viable.
As a result, the charity continues to be prudent and responsible financially while working to ensure, as far as possible, that its resources are used to the greatest effect across the city.
Increased costs are also impacting on the charity’s ability to re-open venues and deliver services. All Glasgow Life buildings are having to be reconfigured to ensure they are compliant with Covid-19 regulations, and need to be thoroughly risk assessed before they can re-open.
In libraries, one-way systems have been introduced, alongside hand-sanitising stations, screens, signage, and a booking system at the Mitchell; all of which are there to help protect both visitors and staff. In every venue that has reopened, capacity is, by necessity, much lower than usual.
ButeFest, the much-loved family-friendly music festival on the Isle of Bute, has confirmed the lineup for this year's edition, set to take place between Friday 26th - Sunday 28th July.
READ MOREAye Write has confirmed stand-alone events and a smaller-scale version of Wee Write in 2024, instead of the full festival going ahead.
READ MOREGlasgow Cocktail Week has unveiled a series of cocktail trails mapping out the very best discounted drinks across the city including its first ever 'No and Low' trail.
READ MOREScotland's home of country, Maggie's Rock 'n' Rodeo, is inviting folk to grab the mic at its new Sunday afternoon event – The Hoedown Hoe-K-Oke, launching Sunday 5th May!
READ MORELatest investigations by National Trust for Scotland archaeologists at Culloden Battlefield have recovered a wide range of artefacts.
READ MOREBroadway and West End phenomenon Kinky Boots The Musical, is strutting back to Glasgow in a brand-new production starring Strictly's Johannes Radebe and rising star Dan Partridge!
READ MOREThe People's Palace, Glasgow will close its doors for the final time on Sunday 14th April, ahead of a major refurbishment.
READ MOREDon't miss out on the Baby & Toddler Show when it returns to Glasgow at the SEC, Glasgow on 19th - 21st April!
READ MOREThe Theatre Royal, Glasgow is one the latest venues set to see the National Theatre's global smash-hit production of War Horse visit as part of a major 18-month UK and Ireland tour.
READ MOREWith a new season brings new flavours and Glasgow Restaurant Week is set to shine a spotlight on the very best dishes and delights the city has to offer, when it kicks off tomorrow!
READ MOREFollowing its purchase by M Core in February, Buchanan Street’s iconic Princes Square has announced a trio of new tenants who will be opening stores in the centre.
READ MORECalling all golfers! Topgolf Glasgow is hosting 'The Final Round – Live' on Sunday 14th April, it's an unmissable event to celebrate golf's most prestigious tournament!
READ MOREA project set up to ensure culture and heritage are at the heart of the regeneration of Glasgow's Sauchiehall Street has secured a significant grant to help achieve its vision.
READ MOREEnergy efficiency will take centre stage at this year’s Scottish Homebuilding & Renovating Show, sponsored by Fleming Homes, when it returns to the SEC, Glasgow on 11-12 May 2024.
READ MOREThe Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair (SGF) is back for 2024, celebrating its 35-year anniversary at Scone Palace.
READ MOREGlasgow International Comedy Festival has revealed 2024's edition was a record-breaking year, with the highest number of shows in the festival's history!
READ MOREGlasgow East End-based and artist-led charity Strange Field announces its first programme of major exhibitions and events.
READ MOREDobbies, the UK's leading garden centre, is inviting plant enthusiasts and foodies alike to a brand new Afternoon Tea and Planting Experience at its stores nationwide.
READ MOREA critically acclaimed show loved by theatre lovers around the world has announced it will be partnering with a leading Scottish charity to raise vital funds for LGBTQ+ young people.
READ MOREThis year's Springfest, set to take place this weekend, has been postponed due to forecasted high winds.
READ MOREWith three weeks to go until Glasgow Cocktail Week takes over the city, the festival has announced an eclectic mix of masterclasses, unique events, and tasting sessions!
READ MOREThis April, Glasgow favourites, El Perro Negro and Ka Pao are joining forces for a tantalising collaboration!
READ MOREThe Glasgow Comedy Club, from the team behind Max's Bar and Room 2, have announced a brand new regular Saturday Night comedy show in Max's Basement launching this Saturday!
READ MOREMatthew Bourne's magical dance production of the classic Tim Burton movie Edward Scissorhands is coming to the Theatre Royal Glasgow in May!
READ MOREWrestlemania 40 is just around the corner and Maggie's Rock 'n' Rodeo has announced it'll be showing all the action live on Sunday 7th April!
READ MORESusie McCabe is the winner of the second Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award announced at Glasgow International Comedy Festival's Comedy Gala on Saturday afternoon.
READ MOREProvand's Lordship, the oldest house in Glasgow, will host a series of family-friendly activities during the Easter school holidays to mark its reopening.
READ MOREStaring X-Factor winner and legend Sam Bailey and Strictly Come Dancing royalty Kevin Clifton, Everybody's Talking About Jamie comes to the King's Theatre Glasgow in May!
READ MORECreative Oceanic powered by Oceanic Awards is proud to announce the 7th Scottish Hospitality Awards 2024.
READ MOREScotland's first listening bar opens this weekend with a programme of impressive global DJs and exceptional sound quality set to soundtrack Glasgow.
READ MOREGo Radio | Number 1 for Glasgow & The West - Listen on DAB, Online or on your Smart Speaker, just say "Launch Go Radio"