A NEW chapter has begun in the life of Harwood Library after it became the first in Bolton to open on a Sunday.

Scores of people, young and old, turned up to take advantage of the extended opening hours. Bookworms scoured the shelves for a good read, while others used the library's computer and Internet facilities.

Visitors had the opportunity to admire the work of Egerton Artists and Friends, which is currently on display. Refreshments were also served from 10am until 4pm.

Harwood Library was chosen for the eight-week pilot project because of its close proximity to the Safeway supermarket.

Sunday opening has been discussed for several years and is being considered as part of a wider review of opening hours.

If successful, it could be expanded throughout the borough and some libraries may open at night to encourage more people to make use of the service. Reports have found that usage in Bolton has fallen 20 per cent over the previous six years.

A range of events has been organised to mark the 150th anniversary of Bolton's libraries.

Julie Spencer, customer services manager for Bolton Libraries, said: "Despite it being such a nice sunny day, we had a steady stream of visitors. The reaction from people was good and most welcomed the Sunday opening. People of all aged came along, and many families as well."

"We need to increase the opening hours of all our libraries outside office hours so more people can use the facilities."

As part of the pilot scheme, questionnaires have been handed out to people to gauge their reaction to the new opening hours.