The importance of reading and writing to future generations in Angus has been underlined as a six-figure library renovation enters its next stage.
Staff have moved into a temporary home at the old Angus Council Access office in Bank Street while Kirriemuir Library is given a £150,000 facelift.
In August, development standards committee members approved plans to add a single-storey, flat-roofed extension to the rear of the Reform Street building, which is a century old this year.
As well as the staff accommodation improvements, new lights, an automatic door system, rewiring and redecoration will be carried out.
Visiting the library in its temporary home, the council’s vice-convener of neighbourhood services Jeanette Gaul said: “I am delighted that we have been able to find a temporary home for the library so that the people of Kirriemuir can still access services during the building’s closure.
“The investment by the council in the library will provide a bright, upgraded facility for the benefit of both users and staff.”
The library project follows an upgrade to the adjacent town hall two years ago. The C-listed buildings sit in the heart of the Kirriemuir conservation area but officials said the proposals were in keeping with their character.
The library was officially opened on September 19 1970 by Lord Lyell.
A selection of books is available in Bank Street along with the library’s four public computers, the photocopier, newspaper area, a room to hold groups, and a children’s library room.
Mrs Gaul took the opportunity to remind young bookworms of the summer reading challenge with the Creepy House theme. Bookbug’s Library Challenge runs from July to mid-August alongside Creepy House.
The challenge encourages very young children to explore their library and enjoy sharing books. There are activities and rewards and all who finish the challenge will be presented with a book.
Mrs Gaul said: “The summer reading challenge is a great way to get children into libraries to keep up their reading skills and confidence during the holidays.”