Polokwane libraries: Ready, but waiting
If everything goes according to plan in the next two weeks, libraries in the city will open at the start of next month.
POLOKWANE – Visitors of libraries in the city will possibly have access to them from the start of April, according to Cultural Services Manager, Peter Lawrence.
Lawrence explained to Review that they are ready to open, however, they have to make sure they adhere to the rules set out by the provincial Arts and Culture Department.
“We do not want libraries to become super-spreader spaces of Covid-19. The department sends their inspector to visit us on a weekly basis to see if we are capable of opening again,” Lawrence explained.
He said they were paid another visit today and if everything goes according to plan in the next two weeks, they will open at the start of next month.
Initially, for two weeks, the library staff will only allow the take-out and return of books from the libraries.
Strict adherence to Covid-19 protocols such as temperature scanning, sanitisation, recording of details for contact tracing, social distancing, allowing only a specific number of visitors at any given time and compulsory wearing of masks will be adhered to.
The library wil be sanitised three times a day and Lawrence says they hope to have it deep-cleansed at least once bi-weekly.
“We hope to allow students into the research area in a phased manner two weeks after our initial reopening. The first two weeks will provide us with an indication of how to advance. After assessing the situation within the first two weeks we will provide a way forward on the number of students to be allowed within the area.”
The Polokwane Municipality’s Spokesperson, Thipa Selala, confirmed that libraries in the city will possibly open within the next month.
“The municipality will look at digital models that can be implemented this financial year, to make it easier for users not to frequent the libraries. Strict adherence to Covid-19 protocols will be implemented to ensure the safety of municipal officials and members of the public who visit the libraries,” he concluded.
