MORE than 13,000 people have crossed the threshold of Newhaven’s new library since it opened earlier this year.

With the library fast becoming a popular community hub, the county council’s lead member for community services, Cllr Chris Dowling, visited the facility this week to perform the official opening.

“I am delighted that the community of Newhaven now have access to such a wonderful, modern space,” said Cllr Dowling. “And it is clear from visitor numbers that people are making the most of it.”

The new £1.6million library opened to the public in March having relocated to larger premises, remaining in the High Street at the centre of the community.

The new facility offers customers more books, films, and greater access to computers, as well as offering WIFI access to all visitors. The larger building has also enabled the library service to create additional space which can be used to hold a wide range of community events and activities.

The services offered in the new library have been shaped by residents who were asked for their views on what the new library should offer.

“The effort that went into planning and bringing this project to fruition has certainly paid off,” Cllr Dowling added. “We now have a wonderful space and, with input from the community, we have been able to provide the services people want and need.”

As well as a 15 per cent increase in visitors to the new library, between April and June this year the number of new members almost trebled to 312 compared to 114 in the same period in 2014.

“Newhaven Library is proving to be a real success story, a great facility at the heart of the community, designed with residents in mind and offering a range of wonderful services,” Cllr Dowling said.

“I hope the community of Newhaven continue to use and enjoy their new facility,” he added.

Newhaven Library is part of a £13million investment in library services by East Sussex County Council, which has also included a new library and social care development in Seaford.