Budding young readers are being encouraged to borrow books from their local library over the festive period with the promise of a free Christmas goody bag. 

North Yorkshire libraries are inviting children aged 4-11 to read four books or borrow a ‘book bundle’ from their local library.  In turn, they can collect a free goody bag including stickers and activities, and there’s also a special treat for pre-schoolers in participating libraries.

Following the latest Government announcement which puts North Yorkshire into Tier 2, the library service has been given the go-ahead to reopen its buildings in a COVID secure manner.

County Councillor Greg White, Executive Member for Libraries, said: “We all need things to look forward to at the moment, and reading together still remains one of life’s simple pleasures. We are delighted that our libraries are now open in a COVID secure manner and would encourage everybody to see what their local branch has to offer.  If you’re looking to enjoy the service from your own home there will be a number of family Christmas activities posted online on library Facebook pages during the festive period.”

The goody bag giveaway will end at lunchtime on Christmas Eve, or the final opening day of individual libraries. The scheme runs while stocks last and families are asked to check their local library is taking part.

The service made changes to the layout of libraries and measures are in place to ensure that it is safe for people to return. Numbers allowed into buildings at any one time have been restricted to ensure that social distancing can be maintained and face coverings must be worn.

Customers are asked to comply with Test and Trace requirements and to limit their visit to 20 minutes so that everyone has a chance to browse.

For more information on library services during the pandemic please visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/CovidLibraries