A £72,000 investment in bringing the latest technology to library users in Darlington will be unveiled next month.

An e-library, giving people access to 28 computers, is to open at the town's Crown Street library.

The computers, along with new furniture, have been provided through funding from the New Opportunities Funding People Network and UK Online initiatives.

Users of the e-library will be able to access the Internet and a variety of PC packages, with library staff on hand to help out.

A number of computer training courses will take place over the coming months, with content planned around feedback gained from users.

The e-library opens on February 3.

It will be based in the former art gallery area, which has been refurbished over recent months in preparation for the opening.

The facilities will be open to the public during normal library opening hours.

The first half-hour session each day is free, with subsequent hourly sessions costing £2.

Concessions will be available for Leisure Pass holders.