LIBRARIES across Cheshire West and Chester are set to close over the Christmas period.

Most libraries in the borough will close their doors at 1pm on Friday, December 24, with the exception of Wharton, Malpas, and Blacon libraries which will close on Thursday, December 23, along with the mobile library.

Services will then continue online until Tuesday, January 4, when the libraries will reopen.

Due to building maintenance works, Sandiway library will reopen on Thursday, January 6.

All library loans throughout December have been extended, with return dates from January 4. 

Councillor Louise Gittins, council leader and cabinet member for wellbeing, said: “Don’t forget that you can access free e-books, e-audio and digital magazines and newspapers, at any time of the day or night, on the council website.

"Although the majority of our libraries will be closed across the festive period, a 24-hour telephone line for renewals is available too, by calling 0300 123 7739.”

For more information about the borough's libraries, visit cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/libraries.

The Cheshire Record Office will close at 4pm on Thursday, December 23, and will reopen at 9am on Tuesday, January 4, but Cheshire Archives’ online resources are still available at cheshirearchives.org.uk.