Update 2: A talk at Portswood Library scheduled for Wednesday (March 18) has been cancelled due to Covid19 concerns, while Cobbett Library in Bitterne Park is advising those with symptoms to stay away has now announced it's "closing for the foreseeable future." Meanwhile the council has issued general information about library services - read more for details.
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The talk was to have been by SEE Southampton Guide Martin Brisland, author of 'Secret Southampton'.
It was to kick off a new season of Friends of Portswood Library 'summer evening talks'.
Friends of Portswood Library announced the move on their Facebook page.
Meanwhile in Bitterne Park, Cobbett Hub & Library have asked anyone with “symptoms of a persistent cough and fever, please DO NOT visit the library and stay at home for 7 days”.
Cobbett Library links to this World Heath Organization article about protecting yourself and others from Covid-19.
Update 2 17/3/2020
Cobbett Hub and Library has announced it's closing "for the foreseeable future".
Update 1 17/3/2020
In a general email about library services and the coronavirus, Southampton City Council said on 16/3/2020:
Dear library user,
Southampton City Libraries and our partners in community libraries are committed to the health and well-being of both the public and staff in all our buildings and we are actively monitoring the information provided by Public Health England and the NHS, in response to the changing coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.
We are signposting Southampton residents to the most up-to-date information and advice on coronavirus via the Southampton City Council website.
At this time there is no change in our hours, operations or service availability.
However, we are taking some preparatory steps:
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- Each library has information posted about COVID-19 and staff can support you in finding more information, from reliable sources on precautionary measures.
- We are ensuring that all our spaces are kept clean, prioritising frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, screens and desktops.
- Each library has hand sanitizers available (currently there is limited supply but more are on the way) and in libraries where there are public toilets, you will find hand washing facilities with antibacterial soap.
- Most of our book returns and issues are operated through self-service machines so please use these if you can - staff are available to assist you.
- Instruments have temporarily been removed during rhyme and toddler time activities.
- We have invested in our eBook and eAudiobook collections... now could be a great opportunity to explore our digital library offer.
- If you have been in direct contact with the virus and have recently returned your materials please contact us on 023 8083 3007.
- If you have items on loan due for return but are unable to visit your local library, you can renew your items online or by contacting us.
We will continue to let you know of any changes to our service via e-alert, social media and our website.