Several libraries around the Harrow area will be closed between Christmas and New Year after a number of staff tested positive for Covid-19. 

Harrow Council confirmed Kenton, Roxeth and Stanmore libraries will not open as planned on Wednesday (December 27) due to staff shortages. 

Cllr Graham Henson, leader of Harrow Council, said it had taken the decision to shut the three “less well used” libraries in the borough over the festive period. 

The libraries in Greenhill, Pinner and Wealdstone will open as normal on Wednesday and Thursday next week. 

Cllr Henson said the spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 was “affecting services”, with a “high number” of frontline staff off sick. 

He added there are plans to reopen all libraries in the new year but that this would have to be reviewed closer to the time. 

The news comes as data published yesterday (Thursday, December 23) showed there had been an 81 per cent increase in the number of positive Covid-19 cases in Harrow compared to the previous week. 

Cllr Henson, along with Harrow Council’s public health chief Carole Furlong, stressed the need for people in the borough to get vaccinated or receive their booster jab. 

They added it is important to take extra care over Christmas with many people expected to meet with loved ones. 

Cllr Henson said: “Please can I urge you all to be cautious this festive period, plan your contact with others carefully, especially if that includes more vulnerable people and do all you can to keep yourself and your family safe.

“I hope despite these difficult circumstances, you are able to enjoy a break and some down time with family or friends in a safe way. 

“Please stay safe for the rest of 2021 and into the new year and take every precaution to do so.”