Readers who use Liden library will soon be able to go and borrow books when there are no librarians on duty.

It is the first library in Swindon run by community groups or parish councils to allow the sort of extended hours access that the central libraries run by Swindon Borough Council offer, using their library card.

The borough council's cabinet member for the town centre Coun Dale Heenan said: "Libraries are at the heart of our communities, but they need to evolve to survive. Liden library is going from strength to strength, with visitors and book hires increasing by by over 17 per cent.

"I am very pleased that library users can register their Swindon Borough Council library card, and use Liden library and our self service system at the times that best suit them. Customer experience is very improvement to us, and we have tried to maintain as close a relationship with the council as possible. This is a Swindon first for community libraries and I hope others follow."

Currently Liden library is open on Monday and Tuesday and shorter hours on Wednesday and Thursday. To use extended access you must be registered by the library and have attended an induction. Speak to staff at Liden Library to be able to use the extended access.