A LIBRARY service has won a Government stamp of approval.

Redcar and Cleveland Council's 13 libraries have won Government plaudits and a Charter Mark for the second year running.

Government officials, who made two inspections of the service, which has 38,000 users, reported: "We are particularly impressed with the commitment shown to user care and the helpful approach of staff. It is evident that you take a longer term view of your service and seek continuous improvement.''

The inspection coincided with the launch at Loftus library of an online partnership with the University of Teesside, allowing course students to work from the library.

The report said: "You work well with other providers and have done much to improve access to your service, including the provision of facilities for the disabled and the provision of new technology.''

Staff at Dormanstown library, near Redcar, will move out on Monday, to allow the development of a £100,000 online centre