LIBRARIES across Wirral are set to receive a £626,000 boost under plans expected to be approved by council.

The cash is the first part of investment into the area's library network and will be used to upgrade and modernise facilities.

Work will include making buildings more accessible for those with disabilities and will provide updated IT and digital equipment for staff and library users.

It is also hoped the investment will improve libraries as learning environments and to ensure they are able to host more events for local communities.

The £626,000 is part of budget proposals set to be considered by Wirral Council's ruling cabinet on Monday, February 18.

Cabinet member for leisure and recreation, Cllr Phill Brightmore told the Globe: “I know how much libraries mean to our local communities and this investment shows that we as a Council recognise their importance too, and will be continuing the investment across Wirral’s libraries.

“Despite vast and continuing cuts to our budgets, we are proud Wirral has protected this service and not shut any libraries.

"This has been achieved often in partnership with the communities they serve.

"We should all be proud of that achievement and I want to thank the staff and volunteers who work so hard to ensure we retain a comprehensive library network.

“But we are only able to press ahead with maintaining and improving such valued facilities as libraries because of the Council’s careful management of its budget during what has been an extended period of steep reductions in local government finances.

“Because this Council has taken steps to bring in new revenue streams where possible, and through careful management of our resources, we are able to not just continue providing crucial services which local people rely upon, but continue to invest in our libraries which play a key role in communities across the borough.”