FOUR 'important' facilities in the Borders will reopen from next month, according to Live Borders.

The trust, which operates the region’s libraries, have confirmed that an “accelerated reopening plan” has been implemented.

Galashiels Library will reopen on July 5; the library in Hawick will reopen on July 12; Eyemouth Library on July 21; and the library in Peebles (Tweeddale Museum) will reopen from July 26.

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Ewan Jackson, Live Borders’ chief executive, said: “I know how important it is to ensure that we get as many people as possible to connect safely with the possibilities and opportunities that reading and wider library services can bring.

“I am delighted we are now able to accelerate the reopening of the four libraries.”

Resuming face-to-face library services will still have restrictions.

Galashiels, Hawick and Peebles libraries will be open for 10 hours a day, whereas Eyemouth will operate for seven.

Visitors will have a 20-minute, pre-booked slot where they can take-out and return books, and use the computer, printing and photocopying facilities.

Face masks are also a requirement for accessing the libraries.

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Mr Jackson added: “Our digital, mobile library and ‘Connect & Collect’ services have played an extremely important part over the course of the pandemic in helping people stay connected and I’m delighted that we are now able to welcome members of the public back in person.”

The remaining Borders libraries – including council contact centres and integrated library contact centres – will continue to offer virtual services online and over the phone until August when they are due to resume face-to-face.

Councillor Euan Jardine, executive member for wellbeing, sport and culture, said: “The pandemic has outlined the importance of facilities like libraries as a vital community hub for people of all ages.

“They act as a focal point within our communities, offering access to a wide variety of vital services like books and computers and this announcement comes as welcome news.

“Libraries have a significant part to play as our communities begin to recover post-pandemic and their gradual reopening is an important first step in a return to normality.”

Live Borders has also launched its ‘Get Into Summer’ programme which will see activities open to young people. For more information, visit: www.liveborders.org.uk/culture/libraries/our-libraries