Library items will be quarantined for 72 hours post-return and extra cleaning at light rail and bus stops will continue as COVID-19 restrictions ease across the ACT.
The ACT Government has urged Canberrans to be mindful when visiting ACT public libraries, all of which will reopen from Tuesday 2 June, and of travelling on public transport.
ACT Transport Minister Chris Steel said last week the public transport network saw a 38% increase on the previous week’s journeys as schools started to resume face-to-face learning.
While the number of journeys is down more than 73% from the same time last year, he urged Canberrans to reconsider their need to use public transport at all, especially during peak times, to avoid sitting or standing next to another person on public transport, and to download the COVIDSafe app.
“Whilst we’re not welcoming people back on to public transport, we do expect to see more people using public transport – and so today we’re reminding Canberrans who have to use public transport to avoid contact with others by spreading out and keeping at least 1.5 metres from other people,” he said.
Mr Steel suggested parents consider alternative options for kids to get to school, and employers adjust work hours to enable travel during off-peak times.
He welcomed the Australian Health Protection Principle Committee’s (AHPPC) principles for safe public transport operations, which, he said, “reinforces” the measures implemented on the network in March. These include: more cleaning at light rail and bus stops; cash-free travel; use of bus rear doors; automatic opening of light rail doors; and the closure of bus front seats.
Mr Steel also announced all ACT public libraries would be open with normal trading hours from Tuesday 2 June. He said while Canberrans were welcome back into the city’s libraries, visitors to the library should maintain hygiene practices and adhere to social distancing rules.
All items returned to the libraries will be placed in quarantine for 72 hours before they can be borrowed again.
ACT Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerryn Coleman, said today, 29 May, that the eased restrictions will see Canberrans moving more freely, with larger gatherings and more interactions, and urged people to “continue playing their part”.
“Every Canberran has a responsibility to maintain physical distancing and practise good hygiene measures. If you are sick, then please stay at home. If you have symptoms, then please get tested at one of the ACT’s testing venues.”
