A SCHEME to transform a town library into a family history and discovery centre could take a step forward next week.

Harrogate Borough councillors will decide whether they want to back the project in principle.

If they give it the go-ahead, North Yorkshire County Council will be able to appoint architects to draw up detailed plans.

Under the proposals, Harrogate library would be extended to contain archives and local study material, a shop, cafe, toilets, lecture theatre and exhibition space.

An application to the Heritage Lottery Fund would be made in December and, if successful, building work would start in June 2007.

The borough council's head of economic development, Nigel Avison, said the scheme would be a boost for Harrogate.

He said: "I am strongly in favour of the project, which I believe will benefit Harrogate in a number of ways.

"It will provide an enhanced resource for local residents. It will also provide a resource for visitors, becoming a tourist destination in its own right."

Councillors will discuss the project on Wednesday.