LIBRARIES across Essex will begin to re-open from July, it has been confirmed. 

Essex County Council is preparing a phased approach to opening the centres.

But Halstead book-lovers will have to wait because the town’s library is not among the first wave.

That will see 16 libraries reopen from July 6, including Colchester, Braintree and Witham. 

Social distancing will be in place and regular cleaning will be carried out. 

Customers will be able to return and borrow books, as well as have some limited time to browse the shelves. 

The number of customers allowed in a library at any one time will need to be reduced.

Customers will be asked to use the self-service machines to issue and return items and to pay any charges. 

Public computers, printing facilities and additional services such as recycling bags will be temporarily unavailable.

County Hall culture boss Susan Barker said: “We are keen to re-open libraries when we can, but libraries are open access public areas and the safety of customers and staff is paramount. 

“More libraries will re-open when we are confident we can do so safely.”

“We would encourage everyone to continue to use the online library resources which have proved to be a big hit with the residents of Essex in these uncertain times.”

It is hoped most of the council’s libraries will be able to open by mid August.

For more information visit www.essex.gov.uk.