LIBRARY users in Cumbria are set to benefit from a new cutting edge computer system which will resemble the service provided by the internet's major bookselling websites.

The new system will come online at all of Cumbria's 53 libraries in December and is designed to revamp the library service's current computer system which dates back to the mid 1980s and is deemed inadequate to manage the 1.4 million books, DVDs, CDs and videos that are available to borrow in the county.

Similar the internet bookseller Amazon.co.uk, the system will provide users with individually tailored reading recommendations based on the books they like to borrow and readers will also be able to find details of all the titles in stock, see which libraries hold copies and whether or not they are available or out on loan. Borrowers will also get reminders about overdue books and will be able to renew their books online.

Library users will be able to access the new system from their home computer or via special terminals available in every library.

Cumbria County Council cabinet member responsible for libraries Roger Bingham said: "The new system will resemble some of the best commercial bookselling websites and will provide a much better service for library users."