A SPRING date has been set for the opening of the new library in Bicester which will replace its current site in Old Place Yard.

The larger library will open its doors in the new community building - being built on the former Franklin's Yard car park - on Monday, April 11, and is hoped to cater to the growing town.

It comes as the first images to show the library's design have been released today.

Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member for cultural and community services Lorraine Lindsay-Gale said: "Our spring opening date is now just around the corner.

"I am looking forward to seeing this fresh, modern, new library with its improved facilities becoming a focal point for a town that is growing but at the same time retaining its own distinctive character as an Oxfordshire town.

"The library will also be a significant part of Oxfordshire County Council’s Library Service in future years."

Ahead of the official opening, the existing library will close on Saturday, March 19, and spend three weeks moving stock across.

Oxfordshire County Council has said that the new space will be bigger, include more computers for public access and wifi facilities.

Bicester Local History Society and National Careers Service will have their own dedicated areas and weekly Job Club meetings will also be held at the library.

The new library will make up part of the multi-million pound community building Franklin's House being built as the second phase to the town centre regeneration.

The £6.5m addition to Pioneer Square will house the library, Cherwell District Council’s Bicester office, a 53-bedroom Travelodge hotel, offices and shops or restaurants.