Gallery & Video: Huntingdon's new library opens

HUNTINGDON S new library opened its doors to the public this morning, after a �4.6m renovation. The purpose-built premises on Princes Street, Huntingdon, boast nearly 20,000 extra books, an expanded children s section, and a new caf� for customers. The cl

HUNTINGDON'S new library opened its doors to the public this morning, after a �4.6m renovation.

The purpose-built premises on Princes Street, Huntingdon, boast nearly 20,000 extra books, an expanded children's section, and a new caf� for customers.

The climate-controlled Huntingdon archive strongroom will house nearly one million items relating to the history of the county, including medieval charters, printed registers and Victorian photographs.

Automated book issuing desks will replace check-out counters, freeing up staff to help customers with advice and enquiries. The new library will have also have longer opening hours, including Sundays.

Lesley Noblett, Head of Library Services, said: "This is a really exciting day for the library.

"People have been responding really well to the new building - when they walk in their reaction is "wow". They are amazed at how much space we have, and how bright and airy the building is," she said.

"We hope that this will inspire people to make as much use of the library as possible."

The library has been operating from Dryden House while the new building was constructed.