THE official opening of Norton library and community hub takes place on Saturday.

Norton Hive reopened in April following a major refurbishment, extending the opening hours from 22 a week, compared to the previous 10.

On Saturday, a grand opening will take place with entertainment and events throughout the day.

Ryedale District councillor Elizabeth Shields, who chairs the Norton Community Library Group, said: “We will be showing everyone the newly-painted and refurbished library area, including the children’s area, the new kitchen and the changes to the former garage, which are now becoming two offices for rent to any community group.

“We already have one definite group who will occupy the end room and are looking for someone totake over the second one. Occupancy of both will be a help for future revenue.”

The library will be open from 9am instead of the usual 10am, providing extra time for those who wish to change books, with the official opening at midday.

Entertainment will include a performance of Alice in Wonderland, music from the White Rose Jazz Band and readings by author Elizabeth Hobbes. There will also be a display of local history photos from the Woodham Stone Collection, tombola, book stall and craft sale.

Cllr Shields said visitors would also have the opportunity to find out more about becoming a volunteer at Norton Hive.

She said: “When North Yorkshire County Council first proposed the cuts to library services, Norton’s future was not even being considered. However, due to the hard work of everyone involved, we have managed to keep our library open and turn it into an excellent community centre which I am sure more and more people will use.

“Our library is now a colourful and inviting space. We have an excellent team of volunteers who have worked hard since our opening to ensure that the library continues to offer everything that it offered before and more.”

For more information phone 01609 534552 or email nortoncommunitylibrary@gmail.com