Israel on Wednesday approved the immediate reopening of all public libraries despite the surge in coronavirus case and a talk about another nationwide lockdown.
The coronavirus cabinet voted to reopen the libraries via a telephone survey just hours after it was reported that Israel has recorded its highest number of new daily COVID-19 cases since October 12.
In addition, the budget for writers' royalties will be increased by an additional NIS 500,000 after NIS 2.7 million were previously approved.
The measures were approved due to the efforts of Culture and Sports Minister Hili Tropper.
“The whole world of literature is important and makes up a significant part of the cultural world. I am happy about the reopening of all public libraries as well as the addition to the writers' royalties,” said Tropper in a statement.
"We have a responsibility for those in the culture industry affected by the coronavirus. We invite everyone to come to the libraries all while following the rules that will ensure the health of every visitor. We will do our best so that the libraries can continue to operate even if additional restrictions are imposed,” added Tropper.
The reopening of libraries comes a week after ministers approved reopening of museums following a successful pilot conducted at a number of selected institutions.