Sefton Libraries are now offering people assistance with their IT via phone and email.

Between 10am and 12 noon every Monday, Sefton residents can call Crosby Library on 0151 257 6400 where staff will try to help them with basic IT issues such as downloading apps, setting up email or staying in touch using Zoom or Skype.

People can also email their enquiries to sefton.libraries@sefton.gov.uk or write in to Crosby Library, Crosby Road North, Waterloo L22 OLQ and a librarian will call them back.

During the pandemic, Sefton Libraries have switched the majority of their activities online. Through their Digital Library Services, people across the borough have been able to access e-books and e-audiobooks using services such as the BorrowBox and RBdigital apps.

While demand has been high, staff have also noticed a digital divide in the community, both in the provision of IT hardware and skill levels.

The idea for the Monday digital helpdesks grew out of the Arts Council and National Lottery, Reaching Communities-funded Human Libraries outreach project that uses creative activities to engage with people living in isolation or with poor mental health.

Cllr Trish Hardy, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing said: “Access to books and other materials is vital for people having to stick to the lockdown regulations and self-isolate as well as for parents home-schooling and entertaining their children.

“There has been huge demand for our online services but we want to ensure that as many people as possible can access them, which is where these Monday sessions come in.

“I would urge anyone who is struggling with how to get the best out of their IT to get in touch and hopefully our tech-savvy libraries staff will be able to help them get connected.”

Details of Sefton’s Library Services and how they are working during COVID-19 can be found at www.sefton.gov.uk/libraries