ALL of Wirral's Libraries will be closed temporarily from 5pm today until further notice.

The action is part of Wirral Council's wider preparations to focus resources and staff on the most critical services relied upon by residents.

It follows Government guidance for people to avoid non-essential contact with others, as part of measures to tackle COVID-19 (Coronavirus).

The temporary closure includes all library events and activities.

Residents are encouraged to sign up or join online, where they can access a wide range of e-books and e-audio for free.

To sign up, they need to fill out a short form giving their name, address, and contact details.

Borrowers who have books which are due back to the libraries during the closure period will have any fines waived.

Cabinet member for community services, Cllr Julie McManus, said: "The closure of libraries is to protect the health and wellbeing of residents and staff, while taking steps to support our most vital services and vulnerable residents.

"Our libraries had a selection of vibrant events planned for the next few weeks, alongside weekly classes which are supported by our residents.

"We're sorry to postpone these but hope to reschedule as many of them as we can.

"In the meantime, I hope residents will find our diverse online catalogue useful in these challenging times.

"More information will be provided when we know more."

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