Libraries minister Rob Wilson officially opened two new state-of-the-art public libraries to Hertfordshire residents on Thursday.
Mr Wilson unveiled a commemorative plaque at both Watford Central and Hemel Hempstead libraries, where he met with staff and members of the public before cutting a celebratory cake to mark the occasion.
Watford Central Library reopened to the public in November 2016 after being fully refurbished to create a bright, tech-enabled facility for users within the original 1920s building.
READ MORE: Watford library given new lease of life with £400,000 makeover
The refurbished library aims to improve the general library service offering whilst providing modern technologies to a growing local population.
Hemel Hempstead library opened its doors to the public in January, marking the completion of a major building project in partnership with Dacorum Borough Council to improve the library service for the local community.
The new facility is part of a wider regeneration project for Hemel Hempstead with the aim of attracting more people and greater investment into the town.
Mr Wilson said: "Libraries are extremely important to the communities they serve, not only as places to borrow books but where people can learn new skills and find out about what’s going on in their local area.
"I am delighted that Hertfordshire County Council is investing in its library service. By introducing innovative technology and providing flexible spaces, Hertfordshire is showing how modern libraries can work for residents in the 21st Century."
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