Staff shortages to cause disruption at county libraries from April

The council say that staff retirements have forced them to reduce staff hours in a number of libraries between April 3 and June 30.

From April 3, Gullane Library will open on Tuesday and Friday (10am-5pm) and Saturday (10am-1pm).

Ormiston Library will open on Wednesday and Friday (10am-5pm).

East Linton Library will open Monday (10am-6pm) and Tuesday (10am-5pm).

Longniddry Library will open Monday (10am-6pm), Tuesday and Friday (10am-5pm) and Saturday (10am-1pm).

Port Seton Library will open Tuesday and Thursday (10am-5pm) and Saturday (10am-1pm).

All libraries are closed between 1pm and 2pm for lunch.

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “A number of staff have retired or moved to other jobs in recent years and although posts are advertised and new people recruited we have been unable to maintain pre-pandemic staffing levels.

"By reducing hours in some of the less popular branches but continuing to offer opening we hope these temporary changes won’t impact our customers too much.”

Port Seton Library in the Port Seton Centre will see its opening hours reduced from April 3 (Image: Newsquest)

Further disruption is expected this weekend at three libraries due to staff shortages.

East Linton Library will be closed tomorrow (Friday). The library is expected to open as normal on Monday.

Tranent Library will close at 4pm tomorrow, an hour earlier than its usual 5pm closing time. It is expected to open as normal on Saturday.

Port Seton Library will be closed on Saturday. It is expected to open as normal on Tuesday morning.

An East Lothian Libraries spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, due to staff shortages and illness, closures will take place over the next two days in East Linton, Tranent and Port Seton libraries.

“We apologise for any inconvenience and are working to resolve issues as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding and patience!”