VISITORS to Rawtenstall Library will notice a big difference from Saturday when a new computer suite is opened.

The downstairs reading room at the library has been transformed, thanks to a grant from the Government's New Opportunities Fund, which has paid for 17 PCs which can be used by the general public for Internet access, e-mails and word processing.

Senior Librarian Nick Bury said: "Besides opening the computer suite, we will be offering people DVDs as well as videos and CDs for hire.

"We have borrowed a large screen TV from Accrington library and will be playing DVDs throughout the day.

"A lift has been installed to the first floor which will improve access for the disabled and mothers with prams.

"We are also holding an exhibition for local history week on Lancashire Pioneers which opens on Saturday and runs to May 12 on the life and works of David Whitehead."

The library will be open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday.