AN “overjoyed” 77-year-old was the first person to visit her local library in Johnstone today.

Ann Clark was at the head of the queue as the library opened at 10am for the first time since lockdown began to return 15 books and borrow another nine.

Reading is Ann’s favourite pastime and she loves romance novels and wartime stores.

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Ann said: “Being able to visit the library was the thing I missed most during lockdown. I’ve loved reading since I was a young girl and I always had my nose in a book.

“I was overjoyed when I heard the library was reopening, as I visit the library twice a week and I must be their most regular customer.”

When the library was closed over the past few months I got books from friends and I even read some books twice.”

Libraries across Renfrewshire opened back up today for members to return titles and pick up books they have ordered online or phone by click and collect.

Last week, the Scottish Government gave the go-ahead for libraries in Scotland to reopen as part of phase three of the route map out of lockdown.

Only one at a time will be allowed into the library and face coverings should be worn inside.

It has also been decided that there will not be any fees for people returning overdue books.

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Renfrewshire Leisure’s chairperson, Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, said: “We encourage people of all ages to read books, as it brings enjoyment and knowledge into our lives.

“Libraries have always been an important resource in our community and it’s brilliant to be able to open up our libraries again and provide a vital service to the public.

“Due to the current coronavirus guidelines from the Scottish Government we will have to operate our libraries in a different way for the time being.

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“But I’m sure our customers will understand and we thank them for their patience and willingness to abide by these guidelines as we welcome them back.”

Books can be reserved online at www.renfrewshirelibraries.co.uk or by telephone on 0300 300 1188.