Library services under Lockdown Level 1, as of 12 October 2020

With the national lockdown reduced to Alert Level 1 in October, the Library Executive approved the re-establishment of more essential services within the scope of the campus re-entry plan. Since the initial lockdown announcement in March 2020, the library has offered an extended suite of online services to accommodate the higher demand for information.

Due to a demand for chapters or other parts of physical books, the library established a digitisation service shortly after the physical libraries were closed. Requests can be submitted online and after being digitised, the materials are emailed to those who requested them. All these requests are handled within copyright regulations.

A contactless collection service for library material, which was initiated during Alert Level 3 has been a success and will continue until further notice. This service allows library users to make requests for materials on the library system, followed by communication (between library staff and the student) to collect the requested material from the library. Library material may still be returned via the book drops at all library sites (these items will be quarantined before being re-shelved). Users may also return library material via registered mail or courier services.

Most of the UP libraries are now open Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 18:00, and Saturdays from 9:00 to 13:00 since Monday 12 October 2020. Limited study spaces are available in each library and must be booked online in advance. The number of study seats available in the libraries depends on the size and capacity of the respective library as well as the regulations regarding the number of people allowed in public spaces. The Research Commons (all campuses) is also open to postgraduate students, and seats must be booked online in advance. However, due to health risks, the study centres and computer areas (on all campuses) remain closed.

Since the National Lockdown commenced, the Library has prioritised the health of all its users and staff. Health and safety measures as well as social distancing protocols have been adhered to in all libraries. This approach will guide all future decisions regarding library services and offerings.