A VILLAGE has found the perfect way to celebrate World Book Day - by opening a new library.

Wingate Library, which has served the community since the 1950s, closes today to move to a new home.

About 6,000 books, including 300 new ones, will be transported a short distance down the street to new premises in Front Street.

The building will open on Thursday - World Book Day - and cater for its 600 members and the wider community during hours to suit them.

Divisional manager Sheila Owens said: "It is important for libraries to be open when people can make the most of them, so we consulted local people to find out when they felt we should open.

"The design of the new library includes an atrium, which should make it feel light and airy, and a new computerised issue and discharge system should speed things along.

"There will also be five computers, with free internet access, and as well as the new books there will be spoken story tapes and story sacks."

A series of events is planned to celebrate the opening, including activities for children.

It forms part of Wingate Community Centre and will be open from 2pm to 7pm on Mondays, 9am to noon on Tuesdays, 9am to 7pm on Thursdays and 9am to noon on Saturdays.