A library has welcomed back book lovers after a refurbishment that ended up taking almost a year.

Highgate Library, which was due to open in the autumn, reopened on Wednesday (January 31) after closing on February 2 last year, with a new lift and accessible toilet, new furniture, decoration and layout.

The Edwardian building in Shepherds Hill opened as a public library in 1902 on the site of a former priory and was revamped in a £4.9 million, four-year programme.

Highgate councillor Scott Emery (Lib Dem) said: "Highgate Library provides a vital community space for learning, events and use of technology."

Cllr Emily Arkell, Haringey Council's cabinet member for communities and culture, said: "At a time when other local authorities are closing their libraries, we’re improving ours and re-opening them."