THE Harris Library may have to close for more than a month while a new information technology learning centre is installed.

The lending library, children's and music departments would all be affected and have to remain locked between November 27, and January 4, while the centre and a new computer system is put in place.

The project, backed by Lancashire County Library Service and Preston College, is designed to take the local service into the new Millennium, providing IT access for the whole community.

Divisional librarian Lynda Farnworth says the only way the new technology can be installed quickly and safely is to close the three sections throughout December.

Members of Preston Borough Council's leisure services committee are expected to decide whether to approve the plans at a meeting today (Thursday) when they discuss a report by Mrs Farnworth's describing the scheme.

In the report Mrs Farnworth said: "Major changes are needed in the existing layout of the adult lending, music and children's sections to enable this development to take place.

"Preston Borough's officers from the technical, architects and conservation departments have been, and will continue to be, consulted and involved."

Details of the services to be provided by the new facilities are expected to be outlined at the next meeting of the Leisure Services Committee.

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