EAST Lancashire residents who cannot afford a computer will be able to log on to free Internet access -- thanks to a £65,000 project.

People's Centres are to be set up in every library across the region by the end of the year, offering a range of hi-tech opportunities

Lancashire County Council's Library Service has won the cash award from the New Opportunities Fund to expand upon two projects which are already underway -- the People's Network and Smile Centres.

The People's Network already provides some access to computers and Smile Centres help young people with special learning needs to develop their IT skills.

Now the new People's Centres will target residents who have disabilities or language or learning difficulties.

And an outreach programme will provide further help to housebound people, travellers and the homeless.

County Coun Marcus Johnstone, Cabinet Member for Libraries, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have won this award to enable us to develop People's Centres.

"These innovative centres will help many people in East Lancashire who experience barriers when using standard IT equipment.

"By enabling these people to improve their IT skills, libraries will also help to enhance job opportunities.

"It proves once again that local libraries are at the heart of their communities."