Partial Reopening of 15 Public Libraries in Seongbuk-gu

Even During Temporary Closure, Regular Facility and Collection Disinfection Ensures Thorough COVID-19 Prevention... Partial Reopening Services Include Book Lending and Returns

Gireum-dong Geulbit Library

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Seongbuk-gu (Mayor Lee Seung-ro) partially reopened 15 public libraries in the district starting from the 20th, in accordance with the adjusted quarantine measures for facilities subject to gathering restrictions in the metropolitan area.

A Seongbuk-gu official stated, "We partially reopened after a temporary closure of 47 days following the Seoul city quarantine guidelines," adding, "During the temporary closure, we made efforts to minimize citizen inconvenience through non-face-to-face safe book lending services, but some residents were unaware of the partial reopening, so we are actively promoting it."

Even during the temporary closure, the 15 public libraries in Seongbuk-gu regularly disinfected the facilities and reading rooms, striving to prevent COVID-19. After the announcement of the metropolitan area quarantine adjustment on the 17th, they prepared for a safe reopening by disinfecting books and shelves.

The services resumed with this partial reopening include book lending and returns.

Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding each library’s regular closing days and legal holidays (including weekends). Seating in reading rooms and operation of reading culture programs will be flexibly resumed later according to the social distancing level.

A Seongbuk-gu official urged, "Let us all create a safe library together by complying with quarantine rules such as temperature checks, hand sanitization, electronic entry log registration, wearing masks, and maintaining personal distance."

As part of promoting non-face-to-face services, Seongbuk-gu is developing a safe book lending service system through a mobile app. This aims to reduce user inconvenience and deliver books more safely even after COVID-19.

Lee Seung-ro, Mayor of Seongbuk-gu, said, "The Gireum-dong Geulbit Library, whose official opening was delayed due to COVID-19, has been waiting for the moment to comfort citizens whose hearts are weary," and added, "Since citizens’ safety is the top priority, although this is a partial reopening following quarantine rules, we hope visitors find comfort and hope."