SOMERSET'S libraries will offer book lovers a 'personal shopper' order and collect service when they re-open.

Customers will be able to request books by e-mail, through the website, via a new borrower request form. Alternatively you can phone 0300 1232224.

By providing staff with a few key details about what you are looking for, a hand-picked selection of books, and/or talking books, and/or DVDS will be available for collection at a time convenient for you from the library. No hire charges will be applied.

Using the request form, you can mention your favourite authors, or perhaps get some ideas for doing the garden, or some picture books for family story time – staff at the library will be happy to help.

Taunton Library will be the first library in Somerset to launch this service on Monday (July 60.

Subject to a review of the service, it will then be introduced a week later by Bridgwater, Frome, Minehead and Yeovil libraries on July 13.

It is hoped that all other libraries will be able to open their doors again during July and August.

In addition, limited internet access will be available in some libraries, primarily for residents who don't have internet access at home, but who need essential services.

Computers will need to be pre-booked and will be available to be used for up to an hour. Each computer and workstation will be carefully cleaned between bookings and there will be two-metre distancing between desks. Staff will be able to provide very limited support for customers due to the social distancing measures in place.

In line with Government and Public Health guidelines, staff have been busy ensuring they minimise the risks for both staff and customers. In the short term, this means that only limited services are available and unfortunately customers will not be able to browse shelves in the library.

The library service is continuing to develop its online offer, with further investment in e-resources including books, audiobooks, magazines, graphic novels and comics, and newspapers, all available to download free of charge to library members.

There are also over 150 videos for people to enjoy via the Somerset Libraries Facebook and web pages including story-times, gardening and cooking tips and some engaging health and wellbeing videos.

Customers can return any items currently on loan to Taunton Library from July 6 and to other libraries as and when they open, but customers are encouraged not to make a special journey to do this.

All current loans that would have been due back during the lockdown period have been extended to the end of August. Any overdue charges that customers might have incurred as a result of library closures due to Covid-19 will be waived.

The Somerset Mobile Library Service is expected to be back on the road during July and the Home Library Service delivered in partnership with the Royal Voluntary Service has started to deliver books to customers who are unable to leave their homes.

Full details of re-opening libraries, including their hours of opening and services available, can be found on the Somerset Libraries website - www.somersetlibraries.co.uk and via their social media pages – search for Somerset Libraries UK on Facebook, @ @SomersetLib on Twitter and Somerset Libraries on Instagram.