A NEW, improved Alcester Library is set to re-open after months of waiting.

The £196,000 refurbishment of the Priory Road library, originally intended to start in May, began in July after delays and it doors are now set to open on Monday.

The scheme was expected to cost £100,000, but costs rose to £196,000 with a new computer suite, disabled adaptations, learning room and new lighting.

Visitors can enjoy an increase in the number of books, a new read and relax area and a new meeting room. There will also be Bounce and Rhyme sessions for youngsters, as well as storytimes and other fun learning events.

The project has been funded by Warwickshire County Council in partnership with Advantage Alcester and Stratford College, which will operate the new computer suite, offering a range of ICT courses to suit all abilities and age groups.

Linda Smith, area manager for South and East Warwickshire, said the library was looking fantastic and they were busy making the finishing touches and unpacking all the new books.

"We have had a lot of people peering through the windows, so I'm sure they'll be pleased we're re-opening," she said.

"We do plan to have a formal launch at some point, but that will probably be later on when we've sorted out the details."

Alcester Library will be open from 9.30am Monday to Saturday, and will close at 7pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, 12.30pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and 5.30pm on Thursdays and Fridays. For more details, call 01789 762430.