A preview evening will take place next Friday [February 24], with doors officially opening on Saturday, February 25, at 10am.

Ottery’s new library officially opens next week, but members of the public have been invited to get a sneak peek of the new hub before doors open.

Residents can enjoy a preview of the new facility next Friday, between 4.30pm and 6pm.

The library has moved from the Flexton to the former NatWest building in Silver Street and will welcome its first customers from 10am on Saturday.

It is the first new library to be opened by Libraries Unlimited.

Ciara Eastell, chief executive of Libraries Unlimited, said: “We’re thrilled that the people of Ottery will be enjoying these excellent new facilities. As a charity, our aim is to bring ideas, imagination, information and knowledge to people’s lives. The new library in Ottery has been designed for us to do just that.”

Activities to mark the opening will take place between 10am and 1pm, including a book signing with local crime writer Graham Hurley.

Storyteller Ian Pearce will be entertaining young readers with extracts from Winnie the Pooh in the children’s library.

Refreshments will be available from the Friends of Ottery Library (FOOL).

The library will also be home to the town’s Tourist Information Centre.

Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “This new will showcase how the Public Service Mutual is delivering new and innovative services across Devon.

“Congratulations must also be extended to Ottery Town Council for their vision and to the Friends of Ottery Library for their support.”

A ceremonial opening for the library will take place on Saturday, March 18, attended by Julie Dent CBE, chairman of Libraries Unlimited, and mayor Glyn Dobson.

A programme of events have been unveiled, including a children’s photography competition.

The library will also host Professor Bumble’s clowning and slapstick show on Saturday, March 4, between 10.30am and 11.20am. A limited number of free tickets are available by calling the library on 01404 813838.