THE usage of e-books from the town's library service has increased by more than 200 per cent during lockdown.

Livewire says that it has seen an enormous 229 per cent rise in the use of its virtual reads since the coronavirus measures came into force, with all of its buildings having been closed since March.

Its catalogue of online media has gone from strength to strength during this period, leading to 378 new members.

The portfolio has seen the addition of e-comics, the expansion of the e-book collection through additional funding from Arts Council England, online videos on a variety of topics focused on wellbeing, coding activities and home exercises.

Cheryl Siddall, strategic lead for libraries at LiveWire, said: “Libraries have always had an important role to play in supporting Warrington’s communities and during this time of increased isolation, libraries are more important than ever.

“Continuing to increase our digital offering through initiatives like these is a great example of the role libraries continue to play in supporting wellbeing and to help combat social isolation in our communities.”

Now, LiveWire says it will continue to look at ways to expand the libraries’ digital services, in order to 'help with stimulating the minds of adults and children alike'.

This week will see the launch of three new weekly virtual clubs to help Warrington’s residents to get thinking creatively – including a Lego club, adult reading group, and photography tutorials.