Surbiton library is reopening after months of lockdown saw it close its doors until recently.

The popular community library run by Kingston Council (RBK) continued to provide services for its users and readers in the borough at the height of coronavirus pandemic by virtual means.

With restrictive lockdown measures now easing but the threat of the virus still present, RBK announced a range of new rules for the library to keep readers and other visitors safe.

Among those from July 21 will be a new "appointments-based Ready Reads lending service to our members," RBK said.

"We are excited to start reopening some of our library services and look forward to having you back," Councillor Rebekah Moll, responsible for library services Kingston Council, said.

"Our teams are working hard to make sure it is safe for everyone. In the meantime, you can still access our e-books, online newspapers and magazines, databases, and events.

"Due to Government guidelines to keep everyone safe there are some things we won’t be able to provide, including printed newspapers and magazines, public access computers, casual seating areas, study spaces or meeting rooms," she added.

Meanwhile, all visitors will need an appointment to make sure overcrowding is avoided and physical distancing effective.

Visitors will also collect books from the entrance to further minimize the chances of transmitting Covid-19, though the council said it was hoping to be able to offer quick browsing in August.

During lockdown, as the Comet reported, the library continued to offer a wide range of services and programmes, and a massive array of E-books that remains accessible to members.

The reopen comes despite the impact of the coronavirus pandemic so far on RBK's finances being fully realized.

The pandemic cost RBK over £10 million, though would have been over £20 million were it not for emergency government subsidies that will not be extended indefinitely.

To borrow a book using the new Ready Reads service email surbiton.library@kingston.gov.uk or call 020 8547 6254 between 10am and 4pm Tuesday - Friday from 21 July.

An online order form will also be available on the RBK website from 21 July.