All but one of Waltham Forest’s libraries have now closed to limit the spread of coronavirus.

The council has made the “difficult decision” to close all but Walthamstow Library, which will remain open to deliver essential services.

Higham Hill, Hale End, Lea Bridge and Wood Street libraries closed on Friday (March 20), while Chingford, Leyton and Leytonstone libraries closed this morning (March 23).

The council website explains that this will allow library staff to “go on to support our essential services”.

Residents can still get death registrations, parking visitor permits and benefits and council tax support at Walthamstow Library but these services are also available on the council website.

The council website reads: “We have made a number of changes to our online and home delivery offer so that our library service can support our residents at this challenging time.

“People will be able to join a library online without needing to visit, we are increasing home deliveries and all late fines will be waived for the next three months.”