A LIBRARY formerly declared 'surplus to requirements' is set to reopen.

Plans were previously been agreed for the phased reopening of 18 libraries, 12 of which will be run by the county council, and six as independent community libraries.

Earby Library, on Cemetery Road, Barnoldswick was one of the libraries which decisions had been deferred to allow time for further consideration.

Lancashire County Council's cabinet has given permission for a feasibility study to consider the costs and other implications of re-establishing Earby library in the New Road Community Centre rather than the former library building.

Yesterday's decisions bring the network of libraries to be run by Lancashire County Council to 58, with a further seven independent community libraries in development.