A NEW chapter in the life of Ingleton library is beginning with extended opening hours and the possible formation of a Friends of Ingleton Library group.

An informal meeting over a cup of tea will be held at the library on Thursday March 23 at 7.30pm to discuss the possible new group.

There are over 160 such groups nationwide and library "Friends" groups help with fundraising to buy extra stock and equipment, as well as helping with the promotion of the service and taking part in organised events as voluntary assistants.

The groups are usually run by their members under a constitution and often charge a small annual fee. The library service supports them by providing space for meetings and access to office facilities.

In addition, Ingleton library hours are to be extended on an experimental basis in partnership with Craven College.

From March 13 the library will open on Fridays from 10.30am to 1.30pm and on Saturdays from 9.30am to 12.30pm. In addition it will open each Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2pm to 7pm.

At other times the library, which is in the Ingleborough Community Centre, will be available by request to centre staff. A specially designated member of staff will be able to deal with inquiries about the college and to offer support to customers using the computers in the building.

Group librarian, Mark Freeman, said: "It has been a real advantage to move the library into the community centre with its parking facilities and lively clientele. With the help of Craven College and the centre we are now able to offer more facilities and longer opening hours. We hope a Friends of Libraries group will develop this even further."

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.