CAMELFORD Library and Information Service has re-opened as a hub for the community after a brief period of refurbishment.

Camelford Town Council has moved its offices into the library building, ensuring customers can access more local services in one location.

At the same time, the management of the library has been handed over to Camelford Town Council as part of Cornwall Council’s devolution programme.

The arrangements mean that the library is open an extra two days a week and continues to provide all the key areas essential to a modern library, including digital resources and reading for pleasure, information and learning.

The library also remains part of the countywide library service, so customers will keep their existing library cards and will still be able to visit, borrow and order books online from other libraries in Cornwall.

The library’s new opening hours are 10am to 4.30pm on Mondays and Tuesdays and 10am to 1pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Rob Rotchell, mayor of Camelford, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve secured the future of the library for the town. It’s a much loved facility and bringing more local services into the building can only be a good thing. I’m also very proud that Camelford Town Council has been able to increase the opening hours, providing an improved service for the people of Camelford and the surrounding area.

“We have big plans to extend the range of activities in the future and hope to re-establish the Tourist Information Centre later this year, so watch this space!”

Edwina Hannaford, Cornwall Council cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “Cornwall Council has been working closely with town and parish councils and community groups to find the best custodians for local libraries through the Library Transformation Programme. Our aim has always been to work with partners and communities to create sustainable services aligned to local needs.

“With Camelford Town Council taking on the management of the library, local people will be able to continue to enjoy it for many years to come. The town council’s proactive approach to taking more control over local assets is an excellent example of devolution in action, and I commend them for their innovative approach and the excellent service they are providing to their community.”