BROADWAY Library is to open its doors to readers on Saturday afternoons for the first time as part of a wide-ranging review of services to the public.

And to mark the occasion this week, local storyteller Robin Sharples will be on hand to amuse local children with tales of mythical creatures.

Librarian Jill Brown said the extra hours - from 2pm to 5.30pm - would be welcomed by local schoolchildren in particular, as well as working parents.

To boost attendances the library will also stay open later on three evenings a week.

Opening time on Monday will be extended by an hour to 8pm and on Wednesdays and Fridays by half an hour to 5.30pm.

Worcestershire County Council's 28 libraries - which will also be opening longer hours - have over a million books on their shelves.

There are 23 dotted around the county while five mobile libraries supply books to those in more remote areas or who have problems getting about.

Cathy Evans. Library Services manager, said: "Lots of people love to read be it fiction, biographies or other factual work. However, over time, work and family pressures may mean they have to give up their favourite hobby."

Around 30,000 of Worcestershire's 5550,000 residents are already library members and enjoy borrowing books for a few weeks free of charge.

Mrs Evans added: "Anyone who wants to get back to reading can do it without spending a penny at their local library. So a simple present can turn into something more substantial. "

Details about library services can be found at www.worcestershire.gov.uk/libraries.