LATEST NEWS:(10th May 2021)

 

The below information is for when we are able to take bookings after the new lockdown has been lifted. Any group/organisation exempt from the lockdown rules can contact us to discuss the possibility of booking during the lockdown. {Subject to change in line with government and PHE guidance.}

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For those who want to read the rules/ guidance details we have received the links are provided below.

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A COVID secure maximum number has been agreed for both rooms and set as 18 (Main Hall) and 8 (Lower room). These numbers include ALL participants including organisers/ speakers etc.

 

Other rules will apply to your event in COVID laws (for example rule of 6, bubbles etc).

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It may be that any specific event will have to set a limit lower than that above for example because tables are in use or people are lying on the floor for an exercise class, or becasue of some other COVID rule/law.

 

Any group of greater than 6 will need to split into subgroups of no more than 6 who must not socialise across groups. {Unless they are exempt e.g health classes, which have different rules}.

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It is still the case that there is no prospect of the Reading Room re-opening for most of its previous uses, coffee mornings, cinema nights, parties etc. until the anticipated June 21st relaxations.

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The NHS QR code for COVID tracking is displayed at several points in the building. 

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All event organisers must ensure they meet the track and trace requirements for all their participants.

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The kitchen can only be used for access to drinking water. It would be preferred if users brought their own water bottles.

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The criteria that need to be met for general bookings are:

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1. The Reading Room (RR) has to meet the Government, Health England and any other COVID regulations both overall and with respect to any unique limitations of the RR; specially given physical layout of the building. (Hence the 18 Main Hall limit for example)

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2. The actions taken have to be affordable (in financial terms) and manageable within the volunteer time of the committee.

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3. There is an identified need for the event driven by local users wanting to come back and use the RR; and that the renters/ hirers are:

• ​willing to pay the additional costs to sanitize all areas and facilities/ tables/ chairs etc. used.

• willing to obey and enforce all rules and restrictions as defined by the regulations/ laws

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We do not feel that, while the current rules exist, we can responsibly re-open for all (normal) bookings until after June 21st based on current plans.

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But, if anyone feels that their situation/ exemptions allowed mean that they would like to hire the RR given the above, then please contact us and the committee will consider against the background of the national guidance and rules prevailing at the time and the specific request. 

 

The COVID-19 Risk Assessment for the RR is now available (updated 31st August 2020).

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We hope to fully re-open on current plans soon after the 21st June date set by the government.

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Government Advice for multi-purpose community facilities (regularly updated)

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Reading Room Management Committee