Portál Pražana
Municipal Library of Prague opens to the public!
Selected branches of the Municipal Library of Prague opened to the public on Tuesday the 5th of May. However, health and safety measure must still be followed. Despite the government's decision to allow public libraries to open from the 27th of April, some libraries, such as the Municipal Library of Prague, were surprised by this decision and were not ready to open so soon.
The Central Library, Lužiny and Skalka will open next week
All branches of the Municipal Library of Prague have been open since the 5th of May, except for the Main Library Building in Mariánské Square in the Old Town of Prague (the Central Library), and branches in Lužiny and Skalka, which will stay closed until Monday the 11th of May. It is advised to check the library website before visiting, as branches will have restrictions in place such as limited opening hours.
Among other restrictions, prolonged stays in libraries are not permitted. The branches are exclusively opening for books loans and returns. In addition, all visitors must use hand sanitiser when entering the building, wear the obligatory face mask, and follow social distancing rules.
Returned books to be quarantined
Returned books must be kept in quarantine for two days before becoming available for borrowing. Libraries must also keep numbers down, with an area of 10 square metres per visitor, as per government regulations.
Librarians want to send this message to readers: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Please do not rush to the library. Due dates for borrowed books are extended and there will be no late fees. The health of librarians and visitors is the most important thing; the library is not going anywhere after all.”