Crime writer Alex Gray was the guest of honour at the official launch of the new Kilmacolm Library on Thursday.

The Library is part of the new £2 million community centre development and is situated directly opposite the previous library in the old School Board building next to Kilmacolm Cross.

Regeneration Vice Convener Councillor Stephen McCabe said: "The new library opened its doors for the first time at the end of last month and has been doing roaring business and there as been some very positive feedback from people. The building has been converted to a very high standard and the added space has allowed us to increase the number of books and audiovisual items. This is a fantastic facility for Kilmacolm at the heart of the community and I am delighted it is already proving a success.”

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The Library has eleven public access PC’s which will allow a wide range of computer based classes to be taught and it also offers free Wi-Fi access – a first in Inverclyde.

Disabled library users are well catered for with the addition of an easy access height-adjustable computer workstation, adapted WC and induction loop system for the hard of hearing.

The dedicated children’s area provides a larger stock of children’s and young adult title and plenty of space to play and take part in organised events and activities such as weekly Bookbug sessions for 0-4’s and their parents or carers.

Regeneration Convener Councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld said: “The new library offers hugely improved facilities for everyone in Kilmacolm whatever their age or interest - there is even a coffee machine for people who perhaps want to simply relax over the papers or a magazine. I am sure this will be a well-used and well-loved facility.”

To mark the official launch, former Kilmacolm teacher Alex Gray read from her novel ‘Five Ways to Kill a Man’, a murder mystery set in and around Kilmacolm before hosting a question and answer session.

(GK)