Surbiton library members who like reading a proper book rather than an e-version, will be able to enjoy thumbing through the pages of the latest blockbuster in the comfort of their own home from tomorrow (Tuesday, July 21).

The library, which was been closed since March 20 because of the pandemic, will be starting its new Ready Reads: We Select You Collect appointment-based, lending service in a phased reopening of the borough’s library services.

To borrow a book using the new Ready Reads service email [email protected] or call 020 8547 6254 between 10am and 4pm from Tuesday to Friday and tell them the books you would like to read. Alternatively an online order form is also available on the council website at www.kingston.gov.uk/libraries

A team member will then safely prepare your books’ selection and place them in a paper bag with your name on it. You will then be called or emailed to arrange a date and time for you to come to the Ewell Road library to pick them up.

You can return any books you still have out on loan when you collect your new batch, if you wish.

No fines will be issued for the lockdown period and all return dates have been extended until September 1 2020.

If you are vulnerable, or know of someone who is and who cannot reach the library, let the library service know and it can arrange for its Community Library Service to visit with its books and audio books. Email [email protected] or telephone 020 8547 6451.

For details on how you can become a member of the library to access its services see the council’s website here.

Cllr Rebekah Moll, portfolio holder for library services at Kingston Council, said: “We are excited to start reopening some of our library services and look forward to having you back.

“When we reopen next week it will be by appointment only and customers will collect books from the entrance area of the library. For safety reasons there will be no access to the library building.

“Events will continue to be offered online and the Culture Team are planning a summer programme of events and activities for families.

“In August, we will be looking to offer a time-limited, quick-choice browsing and borrowing service in several of our libraries.

“Please visit our website where we will post more information and details as they become available.”