THE best library to open in the country last year was in the North-East, experts have agreed.

Durham's Clayport Library replaced the city's South Street premises when it was opened by the Queen, in May last year.

The multi-million pound Clayport development has won the Public Library Building Award.

Manager June Gowland was presented with the accolade at the Library Council Awards, in Torquay.

It beat 33 libraries in the section for the best new public library in the UK and Ireland.

Ms Gowland said she believed the Clayport development, opposite the city's Gala Theatre, in Millennium Place, had significantly changed people's lives in a positive way.

Durham County Council cultural services director Patrick Conway, who was at the ceremony, said: "The challenge was to fuse a vibrant 21st Century learning experience with the enduring values of public libraries, mediated support, civic space and a reflective and contemplative environment.

"Users and visitors suggest that challenge has just about been met."

During its first year, the library saw a 44 per cent increase in book issues and a 190 per cent increase in audio-visual items being borrowed.

Its three floors house a digital media suite with a bank of computers, traditional lending and reference areas and sections dedicated to children and young people.