Edgware residents and businesses have been invited to celebrate the reopening of their local library as a leading library.

Edgware Library, in Hale Lane, will be officially opened by Barnet Mayor Maureen Braun at 10.30am on May 6, followed by a day of education and entertainment.

Local historians will be talking about the history of Edgware, under-fives will be entertained with stories and IT enthusiasts will be guided through a new 24-hour online library system.

Henna hand painting will also be available, followed by a troupe of Bollywood dancers who will close the day.

Geoff Allen, Barnet's acting head of libraries, museums and local studies, said: "Edgware Library is the first of the borough's libraries to be refurbished as part of our strategy to modernise the service with a smarter look, the latest self-service technology and Wi-Fi.

"I am very pleased with the result and delighted by the positive and appreciative comments of our users."

Edgware Library was closed for refurbishment in February as part of Barnet Council's £1.24 million commitment to bringing the borough's libraries up to date. The investment package was agreed last July after research showed there was demand for it, with Edgware receiving £110,000 of the available funds.

Edgware now benefits from improved access for disabled people and additional community facilities including IT workshops, Baby Rhyme time and children's activities. Self service machines have been installed and Wi-Fi facilities are now available.

There will also be an action point', where people can phone council departments and hand in council tax and benefit documents.

Chipping Barnet will be the next leading library to open on May 16. Golders Green, Hendon and North Finchley libraries are due to reopen later this year.