The library in the centre of Preston that should be the jewel in the city’s reading crown is due for a facelift.

Harris Library will receive £500,000 of a £3.2m pot to upgrade libraries across Lancashire.

The library, which forms part of the historic Harris Museum, has been targeted as part of a scheme to improve the libraries in Preston and beyond.

Lancashire County Council are stumping up the cash and county councillor Mike Calvert said they were focusing on libraries “in need of urgent rennovation”.

He said: “Despite the fact that we’re having to face up to significant financial challenges, this investment illustrates our ongoing commitment to the county’s superb libraries.”

Preston City Council will be consulted on how the library can be upgraded.

Savick and Fulwood libraries is also due to receive funding for improvements.