Visitors to Biddulph library can finally browse its shelves to pick out their own books for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic began.

Biddulph Nub News reported previously how the library reopened following lockdown on 27th July.

However, the library could only operate under an 'order and collect' service, meaning no browsing was allowed.

The order and collect service is still running today, but visitors now also have the option to peruse the shelves of their own accord.

This will also be the case for the other libraries managed by Staffordshire County Council, including those in Leek, Kidsgrove, Newcastle and more.

However, visitors will still not be able to sit down, use the toilets, or read newspapers and magazines.

Visitors must also wear face masks, and stick to each library's social distancing rules.

PC sessions are also available at the libraries, and these must be booked in advance.

Councillor Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet member responsible for libraries, said: "This is another step in the journey towards normality in our libraries.

"Staff will be on hand to talk users through the process until they're used to it and it will be lovely to see customers browsing books in the libraries once more.

"We know how much our libraries mean to people and we're working hard to make them as welcoming as possible."

She added: "Our strategy has been to allow the county council-managed libraries to reopen first and then share any lessons learned with the community-managed ones.

"The community-managed libraries do a wonderful job and we are supporting them closely as they reopen their doors."