Ref. 29410-18USERS of the library come from all backgrounds, so there are no typical ones.

One of the more frequent users is Nadine Marshall, 63, of Ainsworth Road, who gets through a book every two or three days.

Most of her reading material much of it historical fiction comes from the library, although she also keeps spare books of her own at home in case she is unable to make one of her near-daily visits to the library.

She has read so much of the library's stock that she often has to order new titles specially.

Mrs Marshall, a widow, has been visiting the library almost since it opened.

She said: "The staff here are all friendly and helpful, and I really enjoy coming here.

"My grandchildren say it is my second home!"

Mrs Marshall laments the fact that reading is not more popular, especially among young people. She said: "Reading is better, because you have to use your imagination."

Another regular client refused to let the loss of her sight to illness four years ago prevent her from making her regular visits to the library.

Once a devotee of printed fiction, Betty Clayson, 82, who has been using then library for about 20 years, soon switched her allegiance to talking books.

Like Mrs Marshall, she favours historical novels with interesting plots.

For Mrs Clayson, who lives a short distance from the library, even large print is of no use.

"I just can't see it. Talking books are the only ones I can use.

"There is a good selection here, although I wish there were even more.

"And the staff here are absolutely wonderful. They would do anything for you."