OnFife libraries, museums and local studies will reopen from 26 April

OnFife is looking forward to a summer of activity and sunshine.

The easing of restrictions mean the culture charity’s Libraries, Museums and Galleries are preparing to open their doors again from April 26.

“Much has changed over the last year but what hasn’t is the desire to reconnect and be entertained again so we’re really looking forward to welcoming our audiences back with activities designed to make them laugh, sing and forget about life for a while,” said Michelle Sweeney, Director of Creative Development.

OnFife will be taking a collaborative approach to their summer programme by working with Fife Council, Fife Sports & Leisure and Fife Coast and Countryside to deliver a fun packed package of activities and experiences.  More details to be confirmed.

Last year OnFife had postponed theatre programming until spring but it is now anticipated there will be no indoor events until September, although OnFife will review this again in June in line with Scottish Government guidance and its impact on capacity. Two of its venues – Rothes Halls in Glenrothes and Lochgelly Centre – are also currently being used as community vaccination centres.

“When we made the decision to postpone last year we did so fully expecting the uncertainty about indoor performances to have ended by spring but, as this pandemic has shown us many times, there are factors that we can’t control, which is why we are planning for September but reviewing this again in June,” Michelle said.

Meantime, there is also great news for Libraries, Museums and Galleries.

Library services returned last month with Connect & Collect and we will reopen for  Limited Browsing again from 26 April, which will allow controlled access into branches to select books, use public access PCs and other basic offerings such as photocopying, printing and collecting batteries for hearing aids.

have three family-friendly exhibitions – Explore! at Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries from Monday 26th and Blooming Marvellous at Kirkcaldy Galleries from Tuesday 27th. Art-tastic will open at St Andrews Museum as soon as current building work allows. Visits must be pre-booked and numbers will be limited. Visitors must follow the FACTS guidance.

Michelle added: “Our teams are delighted to be opening again. They have done incredible work over the last few months with curating virtual exhibitions but while online can give a sense of a painting or exhibit, you can’t beat standing in front of it in a gallery or museum.

“And with holidaying-at-home on the horizon this summer, as well as visitors coming to Fife, our galleries and museums are the perfect places to help fill your days.”