Haddington, Longniddry and Port Seton Libraries - Opening Hours update

 

We are pleased to announce that from Monday 7th February, Haddington and Longniddry libraries will resume normal opening hours ( with the exception of evening opening for Haddington).

Longniddry Library Opening hours

Monday 10am – 1pm & 2pm – 6pm

Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am – 1pm & 2pm – 5pm

Saturday 10am – 1pm

Haddington Library Opening Hours

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9am - 5pm

Wednesday 10am - 5pm

Saturday 10am - 4pm

Port Seton library will resume normal opening hours from the week beginning Monday 14th February and the opening hours will be as follows:

Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10am – 1pm & 2pm – 5pm

Saturdays 10am – 1pm

Information on the opening hours of all our branches can be found on our webpage

Library opening hours Update

We are delighted to share the news that all of our libraries, with the exception of Wallyford library, will be back open the week beginning Monday 31st January 2022.  

Wallyford library will continue to facilitate class visits and offer a click and collect service to borrowers at this time. Bookbug will take place at Wallyford Community Centre.

Please see the information below for details of branch opening days/hours as of the week beginning 31st January 2022. 

Any further updates or changes to hours will be posed to our social media, webpage and blog pages.

If you have any queries please email libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk or telephone 01620 827827 ( ask for the relevant branch) 

Library Opening Hours

Dunbar Library  

Monday, Tuesday & Friday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Wednesday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm    

Thursday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 7pm 

Saturday - 10am to 1pm

East Linton Library  

Monday, Tuesday & Friday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Gullane Library 

Monday, Tuesday & Friday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Saturday - 10am to 1pm

Haddington Library 

Monday & Friday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Wednesday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm    

Saturday - 10am to 4pm

Longniddry Library

Friday - 10am to 1pm & 2 to 5pm

Musselburgh Library

Monday & Thursday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 7pm

Tuesday & Friday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Wednesday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm    

Saturday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 4pm

North Berwick Library

Monday, Tuesday & Friday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Wednesday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm    

Thursday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 7pm 

Saturday - 10am to 1pm

Ormiston Library ( reopens on Friday 4th February 2022)

Monday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm 

Friday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm 

Port Seton Library

Friday - 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Prestonpans Library

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Saturday - 10am to 1pm  

Tranent Library

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday - 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 5pm

Wallyford Library

Click and Collect can be arranged to be picked up Friday afternoons. Borrowers can complete the Click and Collect Form or email the branch at wallyford.library@eastlothian.gov.uk 

Podcast News

 

Did you know we run not one but two Podcasts?  Yes we do! If you head over to Anchor you can find  

Haddingtonshire Histories brought to you by the amazing local history centre and East Lothian Libraries Podcast Shoosh Read onto find out more about our foray in to the world of Podcasts.

 

 Haddingtonshire Histories – Local History Podcast

Haddingtonshire Histories, is a monthly podcast which first aired in April 2021 and produced by Local History Service. The Podcast features conversations with expert guests on a variety of East Lothian history topics. The y speak to Museum officers, Archivists, and Archaeologists in East Lothian Council’s heritage services.  Dr Hanita Ritchie is your podcast host and our Acting Local History Officer based at the John Gray Centre in Haddington. Hanita loves listening to other history, film, and literature podcast so created Haddingtonshire Histories to highlight the many fascinating aspects of East Lothian’s own rich history and culture.

There are 3 episodes to date. The first, “Who Is John Gray?” is a discussion with Museum Officer Debbie Chalmers-Turnbull. Hanita & Debbie discuss the founding father of Scotland’s public libraries and the namesake of the John Gray Centre itself. Dr David Anderson pops in to chat for episode 2 about the “The Inns and Oots of Dunbar” The old inns and ale-houses in Dunbar make for some interesting stories! 

The latest Episode focuses on family history and some of the fascinating tales encountered when helping customers with family history research over the years. We know how much customers love researching family history so we hope you enjoy this Podcast as much as Hanita enjoyed creating it. Former East Lothian Local History Officer Bill Wilson and Craig Statham, author and a Manager at National Library of Scotland Map Rooms reminisce about their days as History Officers.

Listen out for future topics which will include ‘Witches in East Lothian’, ‘Treasures in the Archives’ , ‘Stones, Bones & Dynamic Digs’, ‘A Night at the Museum’, ‘Crimes and Misdemeanours’, ‘Powerful Prestongrange’ and ‘Lost Places of East Lothian’

 

You can listen to Haddingtonshire Histories on Anchor or via Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts.

 

Shoosh! from East Lothian Libraries

Shoosh! is our library Podcast hosted by one of our wonderful local librarians Louise! , She is joined by a variety of co-hosts and guests and we will be talking about all subjects library related. Which is basically just books isn’t it? Not it is not!

 

Louise and guests talk about a variety of interesting subjects… including books. Louise told us “The podcasts chat about books and collections that the service offers, including our latest Staycation collection” In the three episodes to date Louise and her guests have discussed some very special Bookbug goings on recently, there has been an interesting chat about the impact on Covid on the libraries, Staycations and whether people will continue to holiday at home post Pandemic.

 

Shoosh! is aimed at everyone who uses East Lothian Libraries and perhaps many who don’t, we hope everyone will like it and are open to ideas for what you would like to hear about.

 

Louise also told us she is really enjoying hosting the Podcast, “I like talking! So this is a perfect role for me. At first I wouldn’t have thought I’d enjoy it but after being a guest on another podcast I realised how much fun it was and I enjoy talking about the varied subjects.” In her spare time Louise enjoys Podcasts on Real-life crime and loved the Line of Duty podcast!  

 

You can catch up with Louise and guests on Shoosh hosted by anchor

 

Opening Our Libraries – The Next Phase.

 

We have so far reopened Dunbar, Haddington, Musselburgh, North Berwick, Prestonpans and Tranent Libraries for customers to visit. We are very proud of the service we have maintained this year and are continuing to open libraries as staffing and social distancing measures allow. We are very thankful to our customers for their patience as we have navigated these difficult times!

This week (w/b 24^th May) we are adding Longniddry Library to our list of open branches. They will be open for Click & Collect along with appointments for browsing and PC usage. Opening Monday – Wednesday and Friday 10am – 1pm and 2pm – 4.30pm. We know the staff are looking forward to welcoming our readers back into branch. Call 01620 827 827 and ask for Longniddry Library to make an appointment to attend the library.

 

Also, just a reminder of our Customer Service facilities which are currently open for enquiries and payments.

Brunton Hall: Monday to Friday 10 am - 12 pm and 1 pm - 4 pm (also providing face to face Blue Badge support by appointment)   

      

John Muir House: Monday to Thursday 9 am – 1 pm and 2 pm – 4.30 pm, Fri  9 am – 1 pm and 2 pm – 4 pm.

 

From 31^st May, Port Seton Library will reopen for click and collect, browsing, blue badge support and PC usage. They are opening on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 10 am – 1 pm and 2 pm – 4.30 pm. Call 01620 827 827 and ask for Port Seton Library to arrange your appointment to visit the branch.

 

It is not currently possible for us to open all of our library branches. We are providing a Home Library Delivery service in Ormiston and it is also being visited on a fortnightly basis by the mobile library service provided by Midlothian Libraries.

A Home Delivery Service has also been set up to serve Gullane.

A pop up library will be at The Mart in East Linton every Tuesday from 10 am to 1 pm offering Click & Collect, some titles to borrow, a returns box, hearing aid batteries and recycling bin covers.

Our services are under constant review in line with government guidelines and we will provide updates via our website/newsletters and social media channels when we have them.

Further Service Updates

Week beginning 17th May 2021

 

North Berwick Library and Tranent Library to reopen for browsing, click and collect and PC sessions.  All services provided by appointment.

 

North Berwick Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for North Berwick Library

 

Mon – Fri             10 am – 1 pm  and  2 pm – 4.30 pm

 

 

 

Tranent Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for Tranent Library

 

Mon - Thur           10 am – 1 pm  and  2 pm – 4.30 pm

Guidance on visiting our libraries and the Click and Collect service can be found on our webpage. 

Both libraries will be providing Blue Badge Application support by appointment.

Mobile Library Service Update

The Mobile Library Service delivered by Midlothian Libraries has now restarted.

The week commencing 10th May will see a click and collect service resume with the following fortnightly timetable.

Thursday 13th May (Week 1)
Whitecraig: 10:00 – 10:30
Macmerry: 10:45 – 11:45
Ormiston: 12:45 – 14:00
Ormiston stop is on the main street

Thursday 20th May (Week 2)
Pencaitland: 10.00 -11.00
East Saltoun: 11.15 – 11.45
Gifford: 12.45 – 14.00

Friday 14th May (Week 1)
Cousland: 10-11
Pathhead: 11.15-12.30

Friday 21st May (Week 2)
Humbie: 10-11
Pathhead: 11.15-12.30

New Borrowers can register online first, then either contact the mobile on 07990136894 or via the reserve and collect web form.

Register online
https://www.midlothian.gov.uk/…/using_th…/5/join_the_library

Reserve and Collect page
https://libraries.midlothian.gov.uk/web/arena/reservecollect

Update On our Services

Week beginning 10 May 2021

 

Dunbar Library and Prestonpans Library to reopen for browsing, click and collect and PC sessions.  All services provided by appointment.

 

Dunbar Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for Dunbar Library

 

Mon – Fri             10 am – 1 pm  and  2 pm – 4.30 pm

 

Dunbar will offer face to face Blue Badge support from 17th May

 

 

Prestonpans Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for Prestonpans Library

 

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri            10 am – 1 pm 2 pm – 4.30 pm

Guidance on visiting our libraries and the Click and Collect service can be found on our webpage. 

 

Guidance on visiting the Local History Centre

The Local History Centre re-opens to the public on May 3^rd 2021 for appointments.

 10am to 1pm and 2 to 4.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays

 The services available are family history research and advice, historic newspapers on microfilm and local studies reference library.

 

Please follow all relevant guidance to ensure a safe visit. This will be updated if required or if Scottish Government guidance changes:

• visits for the need to be pre-booked via email to history@eastlothian.gov.uk or telephone 01620 820695
• we ask that all visitors please maintain social distancing, use the hand sanitiser available or wash your hands regularly and wear a face covering (unless exempt)
• please do not visit if you or anyone in your household has any symptoms of coronavirus
• we have an enhanced cleaning regime in place and you may see staff cleaning through the day
• payment by credit or debit card is preferred for any printouts or scans
• please note that this information will be updated regularly as guidelines change

Library reopening May 2021

In line with government guidelines we are delighted to share with you news about the phased reopening of our libraries. The information below includes details of reopening up until 10th May 2021. Please note this is a phased reopening and we will post regular updates on social media, our web pages and blog regarding further opening up of our branches. 

  

Welcome back! We are looking forward to seeing you.

 

Week Beginning 3 May 2021

 

Haddington Library and Musselburgh Library to reopen for browsing, click and collect and PC sessions.  All services provided by appointment.

 

Haddington Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for Haddington Library

 

Mon – Fri 10 am – 1 pm  and  2 pm – 4.30 pm

 

Haddington will offer face to face  Blue Badge support from 17th May

 

Musselburgh Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for Musselburgh Library

 

Mon – Fri 10 am – 1 pm  and   2 pm – 4.30 pm

     

Brunton Hall: Mon – Fri 10 am - 12 pm  and  1 pm  - 4 pm 

(Providing face to face blue badge support from 17th May)     

      

John Muir House to reopen Mon -Thurs 9 am – 1 pm and 2 pm – 4.30 pm

                               and Fri  9 am – 1 pm and 2 pm – 4.pm 

     

John Gray Centre Museum and John Muir Birthplace to reopen from 3 May 2021 at the following times:

 

John Gray Centre Museum:

Wednesday to Friday open to the public 10 am, closed for lunch 1 - 2 pm, last appointment 4 pm. Closed to the public at 4:30 pm (Staff finish at 5 pm)

 

John Muir’s Birthplace Museum:

Wednesday to Saturday open to the public 10 am, last appointment 4:15 pm. Close at 5 pm

     

Local History Service:

To commence on an appointment basis on the same hours as the John Gray Centre with the exception of no public access on a Wednesday.  

   

   

   

Week beginning 10 May 2021

 

Dunbar Library and Prestonpans Library to reopen for browsing, click and collect and PC sessions.  All services provided by appointment.

 

Dunbar Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for Dunbar Library

 

Mon – Fri             10 am – 1 pm  and  2 pm – 4.30 pm

 

Dunbar will offer face to face Blue Badge support from 17th May

 

 

Prestonpans Library: Tel: 01620 827 827 and ask for Prestonpans Library

 

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri            10 am – 1 pm 2 pm – 4.30 pm

Guidance on visiting our libraries and the Click and Collect service can be found on our webpage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Libraries FAQ

Please check our FAQ’s below for information and updates on our services.

What services do you currently provide?

Due to current lockdown restrictions many of our branches are closed. However, Click & Collect and a Home Delivery service are available from the following libraries: Dunbar, Haddington, Musselburgh and North Berwick.

Revised opening hours are in operation and an appointment system will be in place.

To order items via Click and Collect or to discuss Home Delivery please click here or telephone the library on 01620 827827 (ask for relevant branch)

 

We have lots of eResources available as well as an online Children’s programme. We are active on social media so follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and news.

 

I'm not library member but would like to access eResources. Can I do this? 

Yes. You can join as an online member and use your online membership number to register with our eResources. Click here to join. Once the libraries re-open you can upgrade to a full membership which would give you access to physical resources within the library.

How do I access the Library’s eResouces?

We have an extensive range of resources such as 

eAudiobooks and eBooks, 

eNewspapers and eMagazines, 

eComics, 

Music concerts, 

SCRAN, 

Ancestry, 

Theory Test Pro,

The Great Courses, 

Universal Class 

Transparent Language learning. 

 

Please click the links above for more information on accessing each resource.

Ancestry Library Edition has also been made available to access at home until the end of March.

I am having problems logging in to the eResources?

Check out our web page for further help or information. If you are still having difficulties accessing our eResources please email libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk with your name, library membership number, contact email address and a description of the issue. A member of our team will then contact you to help.

 

Why is there a queue for the eBook / eAudiobook I want?

Due to licensing restrictions many titles are limited to one user per copy.  We do buy titles on a regular basis to provide borrowers with a range of choice.

We’ve also bought some simultaneous access titles as part of our Digital Blether on Borrowbox which means there are no waiting times on these titles.

 

Is there anything available for children while we are in lockdown?

We have lots of children’s activities on the dedicated Children’s and Young Persons Facebook page. This includes a weekly timetable of events, including Bookbug, bedtime stories with some of your library favourites, lego build ideas, craft ideas and book recommendations.

Of course we have plenty of eBooks and eAudio books for children available.  

 

If I am shielding how can I get library books?

We are operating a home delivery service. Contact your local library - Dunbar, Haddington, Musselburgh or  North Berwick - and they will arrange books to be delivered to you. To discuss this further, phone 01620 827 827 (then ask for your library)

 

My books are due for return soon, how can I return them?

If you currently have outstanding loans these can be returned to libraries that are open for Click and Collect.

An appointment is not necessary to return items just place them in the return box which will be situated near the front entrance. 

 If you are unable to return your items please keep hold of them until your local library re-opens. All overdue fines are currently suspended.

 

Why can’t I reserve the book I want?

Some reservations have been placed on hold whilst our libraries are closed. Our teams will be happy to help you choose another. You can use the click and collect form or telephone an open branch on 01620 827827 and ask for the relevant branch.

 

I have received an email to say my book is ready – can I collect it?

We will contact customers who have reservations awaiting collection at each operational Click and Collect library to offer them a collection day and time.

 

When are Book Groups re-starting?

Private Book Groups can now arrange collection of new book group boxes. There are new procedures in place for collecting and returning book group boxes. Please read the guidelines by clicking the link below:

Book Group Collection Procedures for borrowers

 Please note that library based book groups are still currently suspended until further notice.

 

How do I get hearing aid batteries?

Hearing aid batteries are now available from Haddington Library, John Muir House, Brunton Hall, Musselburgh Library, Dunbar Library and North Berwick Library. No appointment is necessary but restricted access and opening times will be in operation. You may wish to phone ahead on 01620 827827 and ask for the relevant library.

Alternatively you can telephone Audiology on 0131 536 1637 between 10am-1pm & 2pm-4pm or email on audiology@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk and they will post batteries to you. Alternatively you can email libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk.

If you need Domes or tubes please contact the Audiology department directly. 

 

What about registration appointments?

Please click here for information on registration.

Are the Customer Service desks open?

Brunton Hall is open 10am – 12pm and 1pm – 4pm and John Muir House 9am – 1 pm. 

Only those customers who have been given appointments by staff, or are in need of urgent assistance, should attend during these hours.  If attending these facilities for an appointment, you must wear face a covering.

Wherever possible, customers should look on the Council website, request services online or phone the appropriate number.

 

 

How do I apply for a blue badge?

If you can, the quickest method to apply for a blue badge is via the online form. Click here.

You can ask a family member, friend, support group or carer to assist you or apply on your behalf.

If you are unable to apply online, an application form can be collected from John Muir House, Brunton Hall or one of our libraries that is currently open (see above). Completed application forms and supporting documentation can be returned to your local library which staff will forward to the Blue Badge Team for processing.

 

Can I apply for a bus pass?

Bus Pass applications can now be applied for online. If you go to the National Entitlement Card Webpage you will find all the information you need. 

Alternatively please phone or email your local library where staff will assist you.

 

If we have not answered your query please contact us on email libraries@eastlothian.gov.uk or contact the Switchboard on 01620 827827.  Please note that individual library telephone numbers and emails are currently offline. 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and news.