Library users will have to upgrade their membership to enter part of the Millennium Library when it first opens each day, following cuts to the service's budget.

People will need to sign up for a new automated security system, Open +, to access the first floor of the library between 8am to 9am in May, and between 8am to 10am in June, using their library card and a unique personal identification number.

Margaret Dewsbury, chairman of Norfolk County Council's Communities Committee, said: 'This new arrangement is a solution to the decision taken by the county council in February, when we set the authority's budget, to make savings at the Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library.

'While we will be reducing the number of staffed opening hours, the Open + system will ensure that access for customers to many of the most-used services at the library, which are on the first floor, is retained.'

During Open + hours, one member of staff will be available to deal with queries about first floor services, and CCTV cameras will operate throughout. There will also be guidance notes for customers.

Another cut will see the library close an hour earlier Monday to Saturday from June, at 7pm. Sunday opening hours will remain 9am to 5pm.

Customers will need to visit the library to upgrade their membership. See www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries

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