STAFF at a Darlington library have said they are doing everything they can to ensure overdue repair work is completed as soon as possible.

Work to replace the foyer floor, repairs roof-lights, the roof covering and chimneys and restore external walls and stone features at the Crown Street library has taken months instead of weeks.

A series of unforeseen circumstances has meant the e-library and local studies area has had to remain closed for the duration of the work, which began in September.

However, staff now hope the library can be fully reopened by May at the latest.

Lynne Litchfield, libraries manager, said once the Grade-II-listed building is fully- refurbished it will be a great asset to the town.

She said: "We're planning a grand reopening once everything is finished.

"What we're looking for is a restoration of the Victorian features.

"However, it will still be very light - it will be wonderful.

"I really do understand people's frustration, especially if you're used to using the local studies area every week to study your family tree.

"We're very frustrated too."

The e-library and local studies area have had to be closed, as the restoration work blocked the fire exit outside those parts of the library.

One major hold-up was the discovery, underneath the foyer floor, of the original wall from Peases Mill, which once stood on the library site.

Concrete beams have had to be constructed over the floor to protect the wall.

Ms Litchfield added: "We're back on track now.

"We're obviously not back on the timetable, but things are moving.

"The staff have been fantastic throughout it all.

"It's a lovely building and it might not be ideal for 21st Century needs but we love it and want the best thing for it.

"One end of the building is at least 120 years old and it has seen some hard service.

"We're expecting it to last for another 200 years."

* The library will be closed from March 13 to 15 while work is carried out to install a new security system.