ROCHFORD’S new £500,000 library is set to open within a month.

The hi-tech building, with modern technology and extended opening hours, will be the first in Essex to have a phone dedicated to calling county hall in Chelmsford.

Also featuring public toilets and baby-changing facilities, the library will open on Monday, September 22, in the Old Bungalow development, in the town centre.

David Finch, Essex county councillor for community wellbeing, said: “This is going to be a tremendous asset for the people of Rochford and really provide something for everyone.

“The facilities here will be excellent and the technology means our staff will be able to concentrate on the important job of helping customers get the most out of their visit.”

Facilities also include 12 computers for the public to use free of charge, a meeting room equipped with a whiteboard and digital projector and seating for up to 20 people.

The special phone will provide a direct line to Contact Essex, the first point of contact for the public for Essex County Council inquiries.

The new building was funded by a deal between Rochford District Council and developers, who agreed to fund it in return for planning permission. The new library is in Boleyn House, Roche Close.

Opening hours will be Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.

The old library, in Market Square, is considered too small and will close at 5pm on Saturday, September 6.

Until 9am on Monday September 22, Rochford readers are welcome to attend Hockley Library in Southend Road.