A TEESSIDE library has been relaunched as part of a council’s programme to improve library services across the borough.

The mayor of Stockton, Councillor Barbara Inman, officially reopened Norton library on Wednesday January 7, as part of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s programme of library improvements.

It had been closed since April.

The library will now offer improved services including better IT facilities and a self-service option along with new book stocks. New shelving and furniture, improved lighting and dedicated meeting and community health rooms have also been part of the upgrade.

Cllr Inman was joined in the ceremony at Norton library by Stockton’s Director of Public Health, Peter Kelly, to unveil a Stockton Heritage plaque commemorating Dr George M’Gonigle.

Dr M’Gonigle was Medical Officer of Health for Stockton Borough from 1924 to 1939 and was labelled ‘The Housewives’ Champion’ for his work in studying malnutrition and poverty.

Cllr Inman said: “I am honoured to officially reopen Norton Library and unveil the distinctive heritage plaque. The library’s refurbishment has certainly transformed it into a 21st Century facility.”

Last year saw Roseworth Libraray in Stockton and Thornaby Library on Wesbury Street relocate into nearby children centres. More recently, the Stockton Public Health Information Library moved from Bayheath House to Redhill Children’s Centre.

A new-build Library and Customer Service Centre also opened on Monday, January 5 at a cost of £2.7m.

For more information on Stockton Borough libraries, visit stockton.gov.uk/libraries