Following the reopening of museums, bars, restaurants and shops, The National Library and all 25 public libraries are set to open on July 1. Other public institutions like the National Archives of Singapore and the Former Ford Factory are also reopening on the same date. All the establishments will operate with shorter opening hours and capacity limitations in line with safety measures for businesses and places opening in Phase 2.
The reopening of the libraries will also follow a 'borrow and go' model. This means that you can borrow and return physical library books and materials and use the reservation and book drop services. However, certain facilities and services are not permitted for now. Seats, study areas and newspaper and multimedia stations are not allowed for use. All programmes, guided tours and events in the libraries' physical spaces are also temporarily suspended.
In the meantime, visitors are encouraged to use the NLB mobile app to scan and borrow books to limit contact as much as possible. During the circuit breaker, NLB had extended the loan period for physical library materials from three to six weeks – this will continue to be the norm until December 31.
If you're thinking of dropping by, do note that all libraries are limited to 50 visitors per floor – and there will also be timed entry implemented so each patron's visit is limited to 30 minutes. If you don't want to queue upon arrival, you can also make an online booking for your preferred entry slot to the library. Even before visiting, you can check the NLB mobile app or website for the real-time crowd capacity in the libraries and archives before visiting.
On top of these measures, cleaning and sanitisation of all high touch points in these establishments are carried out once every two hours. Visitors need to wear a mask at all times and comply with all SafeEntry measures during check in and check out.
The National Library, our public libraries and the National Archives of Singapore will operate with shorter opening hours from 11am to 7pm daily until further notice, but the Oldham Theatre (in the National Archives of Singapore) will remain closed. Former Ford Factory will open from 11am to 4pm.
NLB’s digital offerings will continue to be available online. This includes more than 800,000 eBooks and audiobooks, digital storytelling sessions, and more. For more information on how you can borrow these eBooks, read our article here.