BOOK lovers could soon be choosing their latest volumes to the sound of clinking coffee cups and boiling kettles, after plans to open a caf in York Central Library were given the green light.

The scheme involves conversion of the music room in a corner section of the front of the building.

The plans had infuriated some users of the library, concerned at the future of its sheet music section.

Coun Terry Walker, chairman of City of York Council's planning and transport (city centre area) sub-committee, said the views of objectors had been taken on board.

But he said: "The decision was taken on planning grounds. We went with the officers' recommendation, which was to approve, and on planning grounds there was nothing for us to disapprove."

Yesterday's meeting heard that the caf would open during the same hours as the library itself and would serve drinks with pre-prepared snacks brought in, rather than prepared on the premises.

Officers said it was "advisable" that use of the caf be restricted to library users, and recommended a condition banning the sale of take-away food from the caf.

Development control officer Chris Newsome said the effect on the character of the library, a listed building, would be "minimal."

He said: "This is due to the simple level of operation envisaged, with snacks being brought in, rather than prepared on the premises.

"A listed building application would be needed for any alterations that might be involved.

"The use itself would not affect the character of the building."

Among the objectors to the plans is York musician Stephanie Reuter.

Stephanie, of Diamond Street, in The Groves, has said: "I play as a solo musician and as part of an ensemble. If the sheet music section is lost it would make life very difficult for us. Yes, we could buy music, but that would be very expensive and it has to be ordered in advance.

"Otherwise, we would have to travel to libraries elsewhere in Yorkshire to get it. I really hope some alternative arrangements can be found, I couldn't live without my music."

Updated: 12:10 Friday, February 07, 2003