A SIX-week-old baby has become a town's youngest borrower, demonstrating a council's message that you are never to young to join a library.

Grandmother Anne Dolan took tiny granddaughter Gracie Angel Dolan along to the re-opening of Easterside Library, Middlesbrough, yesterday - to sign her up for membership.

More people in the town are taking out books.

Chris Mellor, Middlesbrough Council's head of libraries, said: "Last year we saw a 29 per cent increase in visitors, which puts us up with the national leaders, so more people are getting the message that libraries can enrich your life. Whether it's for study or leisure, we can really help you.

"One of the best features of this extra interest in libraries has been the 12 per cent increase in issues to junior members. Gracie will probably be our youngest ever member; but its never too early to join the library. It costs nothing and can bring you tremendous enjoyment.''

Gracie and her gran joined Middlesbrough Councillor David Budd in re-opening Easterside Library which has been given a new look, with wheelchair access, redecoration and furniture, and a bookshop lay out.

The revamp is part of a £2m spend on libraries across the town.