Great news for Rubery’s library members as Libraries Unlocked launches this week

Worcestershire County Council has invested in new technology which now offers longer opening hours at Rubery Library.

Libraries Unlocked is a new service which provides more flexibility for customers and community groups to use their local library at times that are convenient to them, such as before or after work and on previously closed weekdays.

Thanks to new technology, members can enjoy a range of services, including borrowing and returning books, utilising free library computers and Wi-Fi, accessing dedicated study spaces, participating in community events, and hiring meeting rooms.

Councillor Marcus Hart, Cabinet Member for Communities at Worcestershire County Council, said: “I am thrilled that Libraries Unlocked will be launching at Rubery Library. Libraries are at the heart of our communities across Worcestershire, and I’m very pleased that we’re developing new approaches that work around our residents’ busy lives.”

Libraries Unlocked membership is for ages 15 and over. Under 15s can visit the library during Libraries Unlocked opening hours if they are accompanied by a Libraries Unlocked member.

Library members who wish to upgrade to Libraries Unlocked membership will be required to complete a short induction. To arrange a Libraries Unlocked induction library members can visit Rubery Library and speak to a member of library staff or call 01905 822722 to make an appointment.

Existing Libraries Unlocked members in areas already using the scheme have said it is a "brilliant idea and it's enabled us as a family to access the library more" and that it is the "best thing Worcestershire Libraries have done since the introduction of self-service."

Libraries Unlocked will see a change to staffing hours, so upgrade to free Libraries Unlocked membership and use your library card to visit the library from 8am to 8pm Monday to Saturday.

For more information about Libraries Unlocked visit the Libraries Unlocked webpages.