BOOK fans can once again browse the collection and select their own reads at some of Dudley's libraries.

Dudley, Stourbridge, Halesowen, Brierley Hill, Kingswinford and Sedgley libraries had been offering a takeaway service - issuing pre-selected and pre-issued books for customers to collect since July 6 - but they have now re-opened to enable customers to visit once again to select their own books between 10am and 3pm Monday to Saturday.

Visitors can also use the library computers for up to 60 minutes per day per person, with no requirement to book.

Dudley Archives is also open from Tuesday to Saturday (10am to 3pm) - operating under an ‘appointments only’ system.

Social distancing conditions and signs have been put in place with perspex screens installed on counters at all venues and visitors are encouraged to wear face coverings and to use self-service kiosks to borrow and return items.

Hand sanitiser stations have also been installed at entrances.

A spokesman for Better - part of GLL which runs Dudley's libraries - said staff may also be wearing PPE such as face coverings and visors and added: "We are limiting the number of customers in a library at any one time and so we are asking them to keep their visit as brief as possible."

Books returned will be placed in quarantine for 72 hours before they are made available again for loan and the spokesman added: "We are also asking customers to leave any items they have handled, but do not want to borrow, on a returns trolley so they too can be quarantined."

Payment for printing and photocopying must be made by debit or credit card - cash will not be accepted. Customers unable to make contactless payments can have the amount placed on their account to be paid later.

Library visitors who have not borrowed or returned any items, or used a computer, will also be asked to complete a form with their name and phone number and time of visit before they leave to support the NHS Test and Trace effort.

Libraries at Cradley, Gornal, Netherton, Wordsley and Long Lane in Halesowen remain closed along with library links at Dudley Wood and Quarry Bank.

For all library details including opening hours and contact details go to better.org.uk/library/dudley.