PARENTS and carers bringing up children during the pandemic can now access self-help books on raising children from North Yorkshire’s library service.

The Family Matters collection comprises books on subjects ranging from potty training and toddler tantrums to communicating with troubled teens.

They cover pregnancy, weaning, starting school, teenage anxieties and tips for healthy living. There are books to help with various situations and some for parents and carers to use with children on topics such as bullying and bereavement.

County Councillor Greg White, Executive Member for Libraries, said: “We are pleased to be able to offer this collection at what is a very difficult time for families. Sharing stories about various situations can put a child’s mind at ease and make new experiences easier.

“Libraries are now open for borrowing so it’s the ideal time to pop into your local branch to see what’s on offer.

“The staff and volunteers are very happy to help and if the book you require isn’t available at your local library you can order it from any library in the county.”

The service has made changes to the layout of libraries and measures are in place to ensure that it is safe for people to return.

Numbers allowed into buildings at any one time have been restricted to ensure that social distancing can be maintained and facemasks must be worn.

Customers are being asked to limit their visit to 20 minutes so that everyone has a chance to browse during what are still limited opening hours.