The Essex libraries offering Covid self-test kits from March 29

Residents without symptoms will be able to collect and take away two boxes of seven tests to undertake regular testing at home.

Essex County Council has received an initial stock of 199,000 tests to start the scheme and further tests, and potentially more libraries will be available as more tests become available from the Government.

In north Essex, Colchester, Clacton, Manningtree, Harwich and Witham's libraries will be providing the tests.

Anyone in a bubble or household with children aged zero to 18 should continue to choose the online direct option to get their tests delivered to their home.

Dr Mike Gogarty, director of public health, said: “I cannot emphasise enough how important it is that as lockdown eases people remain vigilant, observe hands, face and space and get tested to make sure we reduce asymptomatic infections as much as possible.

“It is also important that people use the testing channel most appropriate for them to ensure that people we need to get tested can have access to the tests they need.

“We are particularly keen to test people who cannot work from home, and are encouraging residents to take a test before seeing relatives or loved ones outside of their lockdown bubble.

“It is also vital that people upload their results as directed in the test instructions, and that people self-isolate as per the government guidance if their result is positive”.

Here is the full list of libraries providing tests in Essex:

• Saffron Walden Library

• Burnham On Crouch Library

• Chelmsford Library

• Broomfield Library

• Billericay Library

• Brentwood Library

• Epping Library

• Great Parndon Library

• Harlow Central Library

• Dunmow Library

• Braintree Library

• Witham Library

• Maldon Library

• Colchester Library

• Manningtree Library

• Harwich Library

• Clacton Library

• Halstead Library

• Wickford Library

• Basildon Library

• Canvey Island Library