THE re-opening of Torpoint library after two weeks of refurbishment marked the start of a new system, which will free up staff for other duties. Building work has opened up and brightened the entrance, where customers electronically scan their books in or out, without the need for staff to be present. County cllr Eric Brooke, portfolio holder for community services (including libraries), was on hand to see the new machine in action. He said: 'This automation is designed to free up staff for other duties. The machine reads all the books in one go and issues a receipt to the customer. 'This will show if they have forgotten to return a book or if there are any fines that can be paid at the same machine.' Meanwhile, a new children's area has been created and the original counter moved.
