Barry library is first in Wales to launch late night opening hours

People aged 18 and over across the Vale can now benefit from using services at Barry library until 9pm on weekdays.

Cllr Bob Penrose, cabinet member for learning and culture,Trevor Baker, head of strategy, community learning and resources, Phil Southard culture and community learning manager, and director of learning and skills Paula Ham officially launched the late hours programme on Monday, April 23 - World Book Night. 

Barry library is the first branch in Wales to trial the late night hours, using Open+ technology.

Open+ is provided by Bibliotheca, a company which provides self-service solutions for libraries.

The late night opening is designed to complement staffed hours by extending opening times to provide access for people who cannot use the library during the day.  

Library members must register for the service and will be given a pin number allowing them late night access. Members must complete a short induction before using the card.

Children and young people under the age of 18-years-old, will not be granted access to the library unless they are accompanied by an adult parent or guardian, who is an Open+ member.

Both floors in the library will stay open, allowing people to use the computers, access the internet,  and use the self-service machines, allowing them to borrow or return a book, or pay a fine but the computer suite on the second floor will be closed.

Anyone who wants access to the library must registered beforehand. CCTV cameras are in place throughout the building, as well as cameras outside.

Barry library will remain open, as now, until 7pm on Mondays, but will then restart in Open+ mode from 7.05pm – 9pm.

The same pattern will apply for Tuesday – Friday, when the library closes at 5.30pm, and re-opens again at 5.35 until 9pm.

If Open+ is successful in Barry, the service could be extended to other council libraries across the Vale.

Cllr Bob Penrose said: “Launching the Open+ access in Barry and offering these late opening hours is a great way to appeal to more people who don’t have the opportunity to use the library during the day. It

is great timing for students, who can use the space to study for their summer exams, as well as local community group who wish to meet during the evening.

“It is fantastic news that Barry is the first library in Wales to launch the programme and I hope the late hours can encourage more people across the Vale to use the excellent services available at the branch.”