BIDDULPH Library is among the services opened up again by Staffordshire County Council as lockdown restrictions were eased today.

Bookworms were able to browse shelves again at the library in Tunstall Road, while other services reopened by the county council include country park facilities and weddings at register offices.

Library users are able to use the 'order and collect' service and book study space, or a PC and access printing.

Books are still quarantined after handling, and social distancing and the requirement to wear masks still applies.

Initially, Biddulph Library's opening hours will be 2 to 4pm, but it's expected they will be increased after the next easing of lockdown regulations on May 17.

Helen Riley, Staffordshire County Council's Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Families and Communities, said: "As lockdown eases, we are very pleased to be able to take a step towards restoring more public access to our services in the community.

"Inevitably some conditions remain in place at the moment and we ask people to respect staff, volunteers and each other as they return."

Staffordshire's mobile library service has also returned with two specialist vehicles offering an 'order and collect' service at a limited number of stops.

Weddings at Staffordshire's register offices are now permitted with up to 15 in attendance, while people can visit the offices for birth registrations and to give notice of marriage.

Among the council-owned country parks, Cannock Chase Visitor Centre reopened today (Monday) while Chasewater Visitor Centre will be open from next Monday, April 19.

Children's Centres are on a phased reintroduction of Early Years activities for 0-to-fives.

While Staffordshire Record Office reopens this week from 10am to 4pm (Tuesday to Friday), and from 9am to 1pm every third Saturday. Social distancing will remain in place and appointments must be booked in advance.

Helen Riley added: "I know from feedback that people appreciate the efforts so far to provide services in these difficult times and staff are delighted to begin expanding services once again where possible."