OKEHAMPTON Library is encouraging people to join up as part of National Libraries Day on February 9.

With Devon County Council having set a target of signing up 1,000 new members from February 4 to February 10, and 3,000 new members throughout the month, the town's library is going to play its part in recruiting.

Russell Youles, first assistant at the library, said: 'We're inviting everyone not already a member to join Devon Libraries during the week beginning Monday, February 4, and we'd also be delighted to welcome back anyone who hasn't used their library for a while.

'Joining is free and within minutes you will have full access to all our services, including free internet access and all the latest DVDs for hire.

'Everyone who joins or recommends a friend to join their local library during February will be entered into a draw to win a Kobo eReader.

Prospective members can either register at the library, or visit Waitrose on Saturday, February 9 from 10am to noon. Library staff will be on hand to recruit new members, and are holding a draw for one of their users to win a £10 book token.

Cllr Roger Croad, Devon County Council's cabinet member with responsibility for the library service, said: 'Our libraries are important resources at the heart of our communities and play a much wider role beyond just lending books.

'National Libraries Day is an opportunity to celebrate the excellent job our libraries do, and encourage people who haven't visited their local library recently, or ever, to discover exactly what they're missing out on.'

As part of the celebrations the county council is inviting people to tell them what they love about their local library. Heart-shaped display boards are up in every Devon library, with special stickers for residents to leave their messages on.

People can also leave their messages on the Devon Libraries Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/Devon.Libraries">www.facebook.com/Devon.Libraries or post them on Twitter using #lovemyDevonLibrary.