Ashby library has launched a click and collect service from today (Monday).

In a first step towards resuming a normal service, library members now have the opportunity to request a selection of books and audiobooks from their local branch.

The service is now available at Ashby and Coalville libraries with some community-managed libraries also offering click and collect.

Councillor Richard Blunt, county council cabinet member for libraries, said: "I'm delighted this provision is now available as we know that libraries play such a vital role in supporting local residents to access resources which can provide learning, enjoyment and support for health and wellbeing.

"We're increasingly aware that many of our customers are now choosing from our vast digital library of thousands of titles, but we know that some of our members still enjoy borrowing a book physically and on a librarian's recommendation." 

Selections will be hand-picked by library staff based on customers' preferences, including their favourite author or genre, which can be saved to aid future requests. The loan period for click and collect items will be four weeks. 

Hand sanitisers will be available at all sites and any returned items will be put in safe storage for 72 hours before being put back on the shelves. 

Library users will be able to request items using the form on the council's website and a member of the libraries team will be in contact to confirm a date and time for collection. 

To place a click and collect request, visit: Click and Collectfrom Monday, July 6.

Users who cannot complete an online form can request their selection by calling 0116 305 2695.