COUNCIL bosses are likely to take action over concerns that public library standards in Darlington are not high enough.

The borough council could open up a branch library in the north end of the town to complement the main facility in Crown Street.

Funding for books and other learning materials could also be increased, and more training opportunities made available to staff.

The proposals were put forward by the council's lifelong learning scrutiny committee, which carried out a review of public library standards.

It recognised the work done by library staff, but was concerned that targets in some areas were not being met.

Director of education Geoff Pennington said: "The indicators in the library standard measure access to libraries, both static and mobile, and the volume of spend on purchasing books.

"As Darlington has only two static libraries and a steady but moderate spend on the book fund, the majority of standards will not be achieved without a new static library.

"Library staff are committed to continuing to develop the service, and all opportunities are being explored to develop innovative ways of achieving the library standards."

The matter will be discussed at a meeting of the council on Tuesday, January 6.