CHESHIRE County Council's library development plan has been ranked third out of 34 similar blueprints produced by other English shire counties.

For the first time this year, local authorities were required by the Government to submit plans detailing present, medium and long-term strategies for assessment by the Institute of Public Finance.

Cheshire, whose services include Winsford Library, was judged on its scope, structure and content, in addition to its response to the Government's development area priorities.

As well as finishing third among shires, it was rated 17th of all 149 library authorities throughout England and Wales.

Cty Clr Larry Toale, chairman of Cheshire's community development committee, said: "I'm delighted that our plan was rated so highly. Cheshire's top three position reflects favourably on everyone concerned.

"The IPF's assessment augurs well for the future of a service which we know is very close to the Cheshire public's heart."

Lib-Dem spokesman, Cty Clr Molly Hale said: "Our league table position reflects great credit on our dedicated library staff.

"Our libraries continue to outperform councils who spend a good deal more money than we do. I am glad we have demonstrated value for money and have protected the libraries budget in this year's settlement."

Cheshire's plan touches all aspects of the library service until 2001, stressing the authority's emphasis on cutting administrative expenditure to promote front-line library services.

It also features the key balance between the development of IT services to the public with the maintenance of the traditional book lending facilities.

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