An open and shut case – crime writer Peter James launches out-of-hours library service open day
Bestselling crime author Peter James is to help launch a new service which sees a library opened – even when it is shut!
Libraries Extra is being piloted at Woodingdean and Portslade Libraries by Brighton & Hove City Council. The authority is urging people to sign up for a special card giving them access to the facility out-of-hours.
It means cardholders can get into Woodingdean Library, borrow books and use other facilities when the library is usually closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Mr James will be at a launch event on Wednesday November 25, at Woodingdean Library, signing copies of his latest book The House on Cold Hill. The event runs from 3.30 to 5.30pm, with Mr James available from 4.30 to 5pm.
Under Libraries Extra, members will be able to visit the library, meet friends and family, get information, browse the stock and read. Books, CDs and DVDs can be borrowed or returned through the self-service kiosk. Cash payments can be made. Computers and printers can be booked and used.
Would-be members must join at Woodingdean Library, be aged 18 or over and sign up to terms and conditions.
Photo ID and proof of address is required, such as a driving licence or passport - and a household bill. Children and young people under the age of 18 can enter the library during Libraries Extra if accompanied by a responsible adult who is a Libraries Extra member.
During Libraries Extra, the library will be remotely monitored via CCTV and a live audio feed. Library staff support will be available via a dedicated helpline.
A phone line to a security company will also be available in case of emergency.
Deputy chair of the council’s culture committee Cllr Alan Robins said: “This is a new way of getting more value out of the library for residents and schools. It means people will have more flexibility and choice about when they go to the library.”
Libraries Extra hours are:
Woodingdean:
Tuesday 9am – 7pm
Wednesday 9am – 5pm
Friday 9am – 5pm
Staffed hours are unchanged:
Monday 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 5pm
Thursday 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 7pm
Saturday 10am – 1pm, 2pm – 4pm
Portslade
Monday 2pm-7pm
Thursday 9am-7pm
Friday 2pm-5pm
Staffed hours are unchanged:
Monday 9.30am-1pm
Tuesday 9.30am-1pm, 2pm-5pm
Wednesday 9.30am-1pm, 2pm-7pm
Friday 9.30am-1pm
Saturday 9.30am-1pm, 2pm-4pm
More information