Libraries reopened at King’s

New procedure includes safety guidelines and a staged reopening throughout September


A Coronavirus update on Friday announced that King’s Libraries are carrying out a staged reopening throughout September. However, the Archives and Special Collections reading rooms will remain closed for the time being.

King’s have taken precautions to make their libraries as safe as possible. Students are required to have a booking before they arrive, with bookings limited to 2 per week and 1 per day with a 3-hour standard slot. Only the study space assigned to a particular booking should be used. All bookable slots are released 1 week in advance, and book borrowing slots should be reserved the day before.

Guidelines for all King’s buildings are also applicable to, libraries including safe distancing and wearing of face coverings.

Additionally, King’s has stated that: ‘It is your responsibility to ensure you clean your study space before and after use including chair arms and your PC if the desk is equipped with one (wipes will be provided).’ Books that are returned or handled are quarantined for safety.

Upon arrival, students must either scan a QR code next to the booked space or check-in online with a passcode.

Franklin-Wilkins Library, New Hunt’s House Library, Weston Education Centre Library, IOPPN Library are the libraries that are open. Maughan Library, St Thomas’ House Library & The Wills Library space will open on the 15th and 17th of September respectively.

Students are nonetheless encouraged to make use of online resources as much as possible. King’s terms and conditions state that ‘Your visit should only be for essential activities that cannot be completed via our online resources and support.’

More information regarding Coronavirus guidelines for Libraries and Collections can be found here.

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