NTHE opening chapter in the life of North Yorkshire County Council's new mobile libraries has started with the first official stop.

Thornton le Clay was the first to be visited by one of the 12 mobiles, which feature special designs to reflect the variety of services on offer.

Young Bethany Shipley was one of the first of many visitors welcomed by mobile library driver Liz Gibson.

All visitors enjoyed browsing through the wide range of books, videos and tapes available before making their choice.

The mobile libraries make a total of 1,970 stops on a three-week cycle. The van calls at Thornton le Clay from 10.45-11.05 every third Tuesday before moving on to Danby Cottages, Foston, Coneythorpe, Bulmer Post Office and Bulmer Chapel Farm.

County Coun John Dennis, executive member for libraries, said: "We have already had a very positive feedback regarding the new mobile libraries' designs and the increased stock which is available to users.

"The county council's library staff have worked with rural communities served by the mobiles to ensure they have regular access to our services.

"We are piloting mobile library evening stops in some areas which we would hope to continue if they prove popular."