ALL libraries in York will soon have free internet access and self-service as part of City of York Council plans.

Already available at Clifton, Tang Hall, Haxby, York and Acomb Explore Centres, the council is now rolling out free wi-fi to all its 14 libraries by mid-autumn this year.

The council is also installing self-service technology so that customers can check out, renew and return their books quickly and easily by themselves.

Coun Sonja Crisp, cabinet member for leisure, culture and social inclusion will be demonstrating how to use the self-service machines at Haxby Library this week, which has recently had the new technology installed and undergone minor improvements.

York Central Library reopened as York Explore in May last year following a £540,000 revamp.

She said: “Libraries are in the heart of our communities and play an integral part in helping residents to communicate, discover and learn new or old things and connect with friends.

“So, not only are we ensuring all libraries remain open in the city, we’re helping to make the whole library learning experience in York more enjoyable easier to access too.”

There were no costs involved in carrying out the minor improvements at Haxby as shelving from Acomb Explore Library Learning Centre was reused.

During the installation some libraries will close for a short time over the next two months.

For more information and details of closures visit york.gov.uk/libraries