A NEW book collection service has been launched across Hampshire's libraries, as part of the first phase to re-open libraries as safely as possible.

The "We Select You Collect" service means that residents can collect books from their local library, selected by library staff according to everyone's individual preferences.

Residents interested in taking part in the new scheme can complete an online form with their details, and then library staff can regularly hand-pick a selection of books, ready for a social distanced collection.

This can happen as often as each person would like but residents have been told to not visit the library unless they have been given a collection time for their books.

Books can be borrowed for around five weeks at a time, and when they are dropped back, staff will make sure they are clean and safe for the next person to borrow, and librarians will then automatically hand pick the next selection of books.

While the aim is for everyone to be given books they enjoy, staff admit they won't always get it right, and they hope to introduce people to new books and authors they'll love.

To sign up for the new collection service, fill out the online form at: https://bit.ly/2A7yi0h, but only Hampshire Library members have access to the service.