A CHILDREN'S library unveiled its new look and name yesterday at the launch of its summer activities.

The children's section, in the Crown Street Library, has undergone a £30,000 refurbishment and is now called The Word.

It was opened by children's author and illustrator Liz Million.

Different zones have been created to cater for the tastes and needs of all 11,500 children who use the library, including a breastfeeding area and special flooring for toddlers' arts and craft sessions.

Older children can enjoy a castle and dragon-themed section and teenagers can use computers in their own area.

Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children's services, said: "The refurbishment of the junior library will give a fresh new look to the section and will cater for the needs of the different age groups that use it."

The opening of The Word coincided with the launch of a range of free events and activities on offer in Crown Street Library and Cockerton Library throughout the summer.

These include story-times, baby rhyme sessions and various games and pirate workshops.

For information on all events in the Crown Street Library, call (01325) 349610 or for Cockerton Library, call (01325) 461320.