CREDITON'S new-look library has reopened following an ambitious programme of improvements by Devon County Council.

Residents were invited to a sneak preview of the library's transformation on Wednesday, May 19, before it formally re-opened the next day.

The Mayor of Crediton, Cllr Frank Letch, and local County Councillor, Nick Way, spoke at the preview launch event.

Cllr Letch described the new-look library as "dazzling" and Cllr Way said it was "top rate".

Cllr Way said Crediton's Library was the second to be transformed into a 21st century facility by Devon County Council.

He added: "I am sure these new improvements will help the Council's Library Services with their efforts to encourage greater use of this important community asset."

The councillors were thanked for the comments by Librarian-in-charge, Beatrice Coveney.

She stressed: "It is your library. We want you to give us ideas so that we can shape how it is used as you want.

"We want your feedback."

The make-over has seen a new improved layout for the library, designed to offer much more flexible use of the space and to expand the use of the building for the local community.

It includes comfy seats, computers with internet access, free wi-fi, new children's furniture and an improved study space.

Devon County Councillor Stuart Barker, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: "I am delighted with the transformation of Crediton Library.

"By improving the layouts and introducing self service kiosks, the library staff will be able to spend time helping people with their enquiries and choices.

"The library looks and feels brighter and more welcoming. It is better equipped to deal with a bigger choice of books and other services to meet the needs of this community.

"I hope that a much wider range of people of all ages will now use this valuable resource, particularly teenagers, who often feel that libraries have nothing to offer them."

In addition to the previously mentioned improvements, there is a bigger exhibition space and book shelving on wheels to enable it to be moved for certain events.

The modernisation is part of the county council's £650,000 investment to revolutionise libraries in six towns across Devon, turning them into modern 21st century libraries.

Devon County Council spent £88,000 completing the refurbishment of Crediton Library. The library was closed for three weeks to allow the work to take place.

alan-quick@crediton

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