Harrow is set to receive a new library under proposals confirmed this week.

The library, with state-of-the-art facilities and self-service technologies is part of a new Harrow Council strategy to increase the range of facilities that the libraries in the borough have to offer.

Other libraries in Harrow will be refurbished, ensuring they meet the needs of library-goers for years to come, as part of proposals put in place on Wednesday (May 20).

Improvements include LEGO studios for children, from primary to secondary school age, as well as extended library opening hours, something highly requested by residents.

But, four of the borough's libraries will be closing from June 13 as part of the new strategy put in place.

Hatch End, North Harrow, Bob Lawrence and Rayners Lane libraries will be closing, with their services being moved elsewhere.

Community, culture and resident engagement councillor Sue Anderson said: "As a council and a community we don’t want to be closing any services, but we need to protect our front-line services.

“These changes will allow us to improve the library service across the borough for everyone. At the same time it will contribute to the saving of £83m we have to make and ensure money is available to protect the most vulnerable in our society.

“Despite the tough financial climate we find ourselves in and the challenging decisions we have had to make, this strategy is ultimately positive news for the people of Harrow. It strikes the right balance between improving the libraries across the borough and modernising them for residents."

The closure of the libraries was delayed by the council in order to give community groups time to submit business plans to run community libraries. Both North Harrow and Bob Lawrence libraries submitted proposals.

Following consideration, Harrow Council has given North Harrow library more time to work on its business case.

“I know how hard everyone has worked to keep the four libraries open and we were particularly impressed by the business case for North Harrow Library," Cllr Anderson added. "Although the libraries will close on June 13, we will continue to work with North Harrow to see if they can run a community library in the near future.”

The proposal for Bob Lawrence library was not considered to be a financially viable option.

The full strategy for Harrow libraries can be found at the Harrow Council website.