WORK has begun on the £1million refurbishment of Blackburn's Central Library.

The first phase, started last week, involves the children's library being moved temporarily from the first floor to the ground floor while a new creche is created.

Once that is completed in December, a second phase will begin, involving a total refurbishment of the ground floor. All library services will be delivered from the first floor.

Executive Member for leisure and sport Coun Kate Hollern said: "We have worked with staff, the local community and library users to produce plans for a building that will be both attractive and accessible to users and to enable free flow between all floors.

"Access for people with disabilities has been given special consideration."

The building refurbishment is due to be completed in Spring 2003.