A library is now full of new books and state-of-the-art equipment after closing for a month to be refurbished.

Southminster Library reopened two weeks ago after closing on September 4.

Deputy library supervisor, Janine Bailey, 32, of Rupert Road, Southminster, said: “We wanted to let people know we are open again and everything is lovely and new.

“We have new self-service machines, people can now issue and return books themselves without having to come to the counter, to save them time.

“We also have lots of new books.

“I have no idea when it was last refurbished, but it hasn’t been for a long time.”

The library has installed Radio Frequency Identification units, allowing users to issue, renew and return their own books, leaving library assistants free to help customers.

A baby and toddler group is held at the library from 11am every Monday for those with children up to five and a ‘Knit and Natter’ group runs on the second Wednesday of every month.

In the run up to Halloween the newly refurbished library is holding a Roald Dahl ‘Witches’ event, next Thursday, with ‘spooky stories’ and a ‘terrifying treasure trail’.

Mrs Bailey said: “We would like people to come and visit and enjoy the new library.”