ALL Explore libraries in York will be closed from 12pm today until further notice.

They are acting on advice from the Government and are now looking for ways to provide library services online.

The City of York Council revealed on Twitter that they will be working with the libraries to deliver their services.

Cllr Darryl Smalley, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Communities, said: "Explore Library and Archives already has many fantastic online services and are working quickly to create even more.

"In this period of social distancing and self-isolation, I hope and expect residents’ engagement in York’s library service to rocket.

"City of York Council will be working with communities in the coming week to ensure community hubs are in operation across York, supporting the most vulnerable residents with foods and medicines, and making the most of the city’s increasing pool of volunteers.

"We’re also looking at how council services which currently run from Explore’s Library Learning Centres can be delivered differently."

Fiona Williams, chief executive of Explore Learning Library Centre, said: "We are working hard and in close partnership with City of York Council to deliver a range of online services to support people at this difficult time.

"We are also looking at ways to safely deliver books to those who can’t access the internet."

Any borrowed books do not need to be returned until June 30.