VILLAGERS in East Durham are being given a say in when their £180,000 new library should be open.

The library, at Wingate, is due to open early next year and will offer improved facilities, including a children's area, plus displays and increased computer and Internet access.

Library service officials want to make sure it is open at the right times for the people who use it, so they are seeking their views.

About 1,700 questionnaires will be distributed throughout Wingate, Station Town and Hutton Henry from Monday.

All the of children in the area's primary schools and the 900 current members of the existing library will also be asked for their views.

Anyone who does not receive a questionnaire can pick one up from the existing library building.

"The number of hours the new library will open will remain roughly the same as at present, but we need the help of people who use it to ensure that it is open at the right time for them and their family," said divisional manager Sheila Owens.

The questionnaire asks people for their preference for morning, afternoon and even-ing opening.

The form should be returned by Friday, December 21 to the library, the community centre, family centre or post office.

Officials said that work on the 135 square metres building, which will give easy access to the village's new community centre, is progressing well.

The library was designed by Burns Architects, of Castle Eden. The contractor is Findlay Harrison, of Shotton.