Books are being dusted off and computers re-started, as libraries across the borough are tentatively reopened.

But new rules mean libraries will look slightly different after lockdown. Here’s what you need to know.

Which libraries have reopened doors?

Balham, Tooting, Battersea, Putney and Wandsworth Town libraries were the first to welcome back customers, reopening on July 6.

This was followed by Earlsfield, Roehampton and Battersea’s York Gardens, on August 3.

Next Monday, August 10, Battersea Park, Southfields and Northcote libraries will be the latest to let the public in.

Your Local Guardian:

What hours will they be open?

The libraries will be operating reduced opening hours - from 10am to 2.30pm on weekdays and Saturdays.

People planning a trip are best checking if there are any last minute changes or disruptions to the service by visiting the library services website.

What services are running?

All the libraries are offering book drop-offs and pick-ups, along with access to computers and printing services.

People wishing to borrow books need to call or email their requests in advance, or reserve items online via the library catalogue. These will then be available to collect.

You can also access book lendings via the borough’s Home Delivery Library Service, which has operated as usual throughout the pandemic

There will be a quarantine period for books, which will be returned to special bins and trolleys and left for 72 hours before being sorted and reshelved.

People can also book 30-minute computer sessions, but these will be available only by pre-booking.

General browsing and use of the study spaces and reading areas are not yet permitted, in order to maintain social distancing.

Library events and activities will remain online, including story times sing and sign, craft sessions, poetry readings, science sessions and fitness classes.

To find out more about how to use your local library see here.