Southbourne's public library is set to reopen next month – marking its 40th birthday.
The library is currently closed for essential repairs, and a new heating boiler and new lighting are being installed.
"The library will be back in business on Monday, July 6, just three days after its 40th birthday," said Cllr Brad Watson, the cou
nty council cabinet member responsible for the library service.
"We are taking the opportunity to carry out some minor improvements to the interior, including a new counter top and new shelving."
Southbourne library was officially opened in 1969 by astronomer Patrick Moore, just days before astronaut Neil Armstrong took the first steps on the moon.
There is a strong tradition of library service for the Southbourne community. Fifty 'library centres' including one at Southbourne were established in 1925, the first year of the West Sussex county library's life.
Like most of the early libraries in the county, it started in the local school and stayed there for 23 years. The library then moved into the church hall in 1948, remaining there until moving to the present building in First Avenue.
"The library has something for everyone in the family, from a range of popular fiction, to books on travel, hobbies, sport, gardening and much more," said Cllr Watson. There is also access to a million books on every subject, plus DVDs and audio books."
As well as offering help with homework, there are computers available, plus a popular children's area filled with picture and storybooks.
Storytime is held every Wednesday at 2.30pm and baby rhyme time, a free session with rhymes and musical instruments, on the first Friday of the month, at 2.15pm.
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