A REVAMPED mobile library service is set to visit more remote homes in Pendle and surrounding areas in 2009.

A new accessible van will be touring the borough and beyond, with £10,000 worth of new books, Lancashire County Council has announced.

The service, which oftens acts as a social lifeline for the housebound and infirm, will tour community locations in Pendle towns and villages, and neighbouring Gisburn, Sawley and Middop on a two-week rota.

Under the upgrade, the new mobile library van is equipped with improved access facilities for people with disabilities and mobility difficulties.

Low-rise stairs and a passenger lift have been fitted and an induction hearing loop is installed for people with hearing problems.

Plans are being drawn up for the police and fire services to make use of the vehicle during stop-offs, particularly in remote places.

County Coun Anne Brown, cabinet member for adult and community services, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to provide these new mobile libraries to provide a much improved standard of service to some of the most rural parts of Lancashire.

“Mobile libraries always receive very positive feedback from their customers and I know that the service is much appreciated by its current users.

“I’m sure that everyone who uses these vans will find them as attractive and welcoming as I do.”

The library service has also recently introduced improvements to Colne Library, in Albert Road, after receiving £1.39million from the Big Lottery Fund’s YourSpace project.