AN independent report into North Yorkshire's libraries describes them as no more than fair and, despite promises of a cash boost, the Audit Commission has concluded that prospects for improvement remain uncertain.

North Yorkshire County Council has pledged to spend more than £4m upgrading the service and, only this week, unveiled two new mobile libraries.

But the Audit Commission inspection team gave the service just one star as inspectors felt that the positive features, such as a broad range of services and a good web site, are outweighed by weaknesses such as poor book stock and outdated buildings.

Commissioning Inspector for the northern region, Pat Thynne, said: "North Yorkshire County Council recognises the library service needs to be improved and developed and has committed additional funding to achieving this.

"However, the council needs to develop a clear and comprehensive understanding of what matters to local people, and must ensure planned improvements are robustly monitored."

In reply, the county council's director of business and community services, Gordon Gresty, said: "We're extremely disappointed the inspectors felt we had uncertain prospects for improvement.

"I can assure the public improvements will be taking place and have already started since the inspectors' visit.

"This will be an on-going programme which will provide the communities of North Yorkshire with a modern up-to-date library and information service."

...but new mobile units are leading the way

THOUSANDS of pounds have been invested to move North Yorkshire's library service into a new technological era.

Gone are the days of searching endless rows of dusty books as information can now be accessed at the touch of a button. Furthermore, the interactive service can be brought to your doorstep.

North Yorkshire County Council has launched two new mobile libraries at a cost of £160,000. They will be added to their updated fleet of 10 libraries that travel the length and breadth of the county for more than 300 hours a week.

The state-of-the-art mobiles are equipped with computer workstations, DVDs and movies, pushing the conventional books to the back of the shelf.

The council's director of business and community services, Gordon Gresty, said: "There is a great demand for this service from both the young and old. All kinds of people want to access information and are keen on music, so receiving that service shouldn't be denied.

"These more upbeat and spectacular mobile libraries ensure that everybody in the rural areas can benefit from the service."