BOOKWORMS are busy exploring the new-look Northolt library, which has opened after a £1.5m facelift.

The Church Road library was upgraded largely thanks to the Big Lottery Fund’s Community Libraries programme, and £300,000 from Ealing Council.

The new library boasts facilities aimed at meeting 21st century needs – alongside the traditional book-lending services, it also includes community rooms for the use of community groups, computers with free internet access, a study room and sensory garden.

It will also host a range of events and classes.

Cllr Phil Taylor, Ealing council’s cabinet member for Customer and Community Services, said: “The new library is so much more appealing, and I am impressed with the work that has been done. It has a much more inviting feel to it, and I am sure that residents will agree when they come and visit.

He added the upgraded facilities are likely to attract many more visitors.

Such was the scale of the facelift that the library has been closed since October 2008 to allow the work to be carried out.

The library is open Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm; Friday-Saturday 9am-5pm. For more information, ring 0208 845 3380.