SOUTHEND Library was forced to close for the day after a fire broke out in the basement.

A small number of library users and staff were evacuated at around 10.30am yesterday.

Two fire crews attended the library in Victoria Avenue.

The cause of the fire is being investigated. It is not known exactly how long the library will be closed, although it is hoped it will reopen again after noon today.

Station officer at Southend, Nick Brazier, said: "There was a small amount of smoke in the basement.

"There had been an earlier fire, but no sign of anything other than the smoke.

"We recommended the library shuts for the day and the council gets electricians in because the source was near a switchboard with signs saying seek advice before touching due to high voltage'."

The fire came a day after the library organised and held a family crafts day for children on their school holidays. No events were being held yesterday so disruption was just to normal library users.

Michael Smith, spokesman for Southend Council, said: "Members of the public were evacuated as a safety precaution, no one was harmed.

"The fire was self-contained and the cause is now being investigated.

"We'd like to thank the public for their cooperation and we will endeavour to reopen the library as soon as possible."