A COMMUNITY library could struggle to reopen safely in the pandemic, Winsford's borough council admits.

Wharton Library was closed due to coronavirus back in March.

Cheshire West and Chester Council reopened main town centre libraries, including Winsford's, last month and some smaller libraries today, August 10.

But Cllr Louise Gittins, council leader, says CWAC is considering alternatives if it cannot find a way to reopen Wharton Library safely.

She said: "By reopening our libraries in stages, we can ensure all of the safety precautions are in place and working effectively.

"Reopening the remaining libraries in Hoole, Malpas, Tarporley, Tarvin, Tattenhall, Wharton and the mobile libraries has raised some operational challenges.

"We are exploring whether an alternative service, such as order and collect, can be offered safely for customers of these sites."

Winsford Library was one of five to reopen in Cheshire West last month.

Between reopening and last Wednesday, the borough's libraries had 18,640 visits, while customers returned 23,436 items and borrowed 16,782 items.

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Libraries have been operating safely with new layouts and social distancing.

Winsford Library is open from 2pm to 6pm on Mondays, from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and from 10am to 1pm on Thursdays and Saturdays.