IPSWICH INSTITUTE
READING ROOM & LIBRARY

It has been a number of weeks now since the Institute had to close its doors but we have been working away behind the scenes planning for the time when we can finally re-open and welcome members once again.

The Institute takes the safety of members and staff very seriously and we want to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable when we re-open. Over the past few days we have been sourcing items to put this into place, including perspex screens for counters, clear visors for staff and plenty of hand sanitiser.

We hope you all remain well and look forward to seeing you soon.

Jo Rooks
General Manager

Today a small group met (virtually) to begin the planning process for re-opening the Institute in the future. We are waiting to hear from Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday about the UK's plans for coming out of lockdown, which will provide guidance on how we move forwards and what measures we will need to put in place.

As soon as we know more from the government we will be communicating with all our members by letter or email to let you know how we plan to start re-opening whilst keeping everyone safe.

Many of the Institute staff have been furloughed but you can still get in touch with us via email, library@ipswichinstitute.org.uk

I hope you are all well and looking forward to joining us again at the Institute when we can re-open.

Jo Rooks, General Manager

Monday 20th April sees the start of a new regime at the Institute as we welcome Jo Rooks to the role of General Manager, allowing Hugh Pierce to slip quietly into retirement. The handover period was to have been two weeks – to the end of April - but given the current circumstances, Hugh has promised to be available for as long as is necessary to support Jo and the team in successfully reopening the Institute when the time comes.
Jo was previously a very successful Learning Officer for the Museum of East Anglian Life and we are sure Institute members will wish her the very best as she changes her focus from Stowmarket to Ipswich!