KEEN readers are now able to swipe out and return their own books at Wellington’s revamped library.

Life has been made easier for users after the facility underwent a facelift and had state-of-the-art self-service technology installed.

Cllr David Hall, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “Staff will be on hand to help people get to grips with the new technology.

“We’ve already successfully introduced self-service in nine of Somerset’s busiest libraries and I’m sure it will prove just as successful in Wellington.”

The library, on Fore Street, was temporarily closed for the refurbishment and re-opened for business on Monday (March 31).

Self–service means library users can issue and return books, DVDs and other materials for themselves using the newly-installed touch-screen kiosks.

The kiosks are simple to operate and bosses say self-service reduces queues at peak times and allows staff to focus on customer enquiries.

Sue Crowley, library services manager at the county council, said: “Library users need to bring their membership card and PIN to use the kiosks.

“Anyone who doesn’t have a PIN, has forgotten it or wants to change it to something more memorable can ask a member of library staff.”

As well as the technology upgrade, the library also got a revamped entrance, updated signs, a new enquiries desk, re-fitted carpet and a general spruce up.