A LIBRARY is undergoing a transformation to improve services for the community.

The refurbishment of Malton Library will begin next Friday, September 4, and will provide an “updated and flexible space, offering a better service to visitors”.

The improvements by North Yorkshire County Council will include a new-look children’s library, an IT and study area and new books for all ages.

“Malton Library is a very well-used community facility,” said County Cllr Lindsay Burr, member for Malton.

“I am delighted to see that this important work is at last taking place.

“The improvements will benefit so many residents in the area and will ensure the library is a relevant space for the 21st century.”

Until recently, Malton Library attracted more than 1,000 visitors each week.

The library is currently operating a reduced service as a coronavirus-secure site, but it is hoped the refurbishment will bring in even more people once it is safe to do so.

“This refurbishment will bring a range of benefits to customers, not only in excellent library facilities but also a flexible space to allow the community to make best use of the venue,” added County Cllr Greg White, executive member for libraries.

“It will increase opportunities for the library to host drop-in services and activities in the future at a safe, easily accessible venue in the town centre.”

The library will close at 4pm on Friday, September 4, and is scheduled to reopen in late October.

Customers will be able to borrow additional books to cover the closure period and arrangements have been made to continue home library service deliveries.

The nearest alternative libraries are Norton HIVE Community Library and Pickering Library.

Customers can browse, reserve and renew items and access their library account online via northyorks.gov.uk/libraries and can borrow e-books, magazines and audiobooks for free.

For more information, email malton.library@northyorks.gov.uk