READERS in Haslingden and Padiham could be able to visit their town's library at lunchtime if a change in opening hours is agreed.

Lancashire County Council is carrying out a review of library services and one issue under discussion is to open smaller libraries, including Haslingden, at lunchtime.

County Coun Marcus Johnstone, cabinet member for communications, information and lifelong learning, said: "These libraries play a key part in community life and we hope to make them as accessible as possible for library users.

"A number of libraries currently close for a short period at lunchtime, but by staying open we hope to encourage even more people to use the service. For some people, lunchtime is the most convenient time to visit the library.

"I am particularly pleased that one of the libraries which will benefit is Padiham, which is my local library in the division I represent and I hope that other parts of Lancashire will benefit from this too."

Following consultation, any new opening times will start in January.